FRMCS - Migration and Replacement of GSM-R
The replacement of GSM-R and the introduction of FRMCS will enable the safe and flexible introduction of new technologies and services under increasing demands on the train radio system, while simultaneously improving availability and stability. At ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG, a pilot of FRMCS is planned to begin in 2027. Starting with the TEN-T corridor routes, a multi-phase, route-based rollout of decentralised radio sites is scheduled. The rollout of FRMCS and the phasing out of GSM-R will be closely coordinated. According to current plans, a temporary parallel operation of both technologies is expected until the final decommissioning of GSM-R by 2035 at the latest.
Expansion of Public Mobile Networks
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ÖBB INFRA and Austrian mobile network operators have significantly improved mobile network coverage across approximately 1,500 km of Austria’s key railway routes. This includes coverage along main lines and suburban S-Bahn routes in the Greater Vienna area and across the federal provinces. Additional routes are planned to be cooperatively developed by 2033. Furthermore, modernisation of new and already covered routes with 5th generation mobile communication (5G) is planned, covering a total of around 3,300 km.
Operational Radio – DMR Instead of Analogue Trunked Radio
Due to the steadily increasing requirements for connectivity driven by the digitalisation of rail operations, operational radio (primarily used for shunting) is currently being modernised from analogue trunked radio to the digital radio system DMR (Digital Mobile Radio according to ETSI standard). As part of the project, around 500 stationary radio systems will be newly installed, and approximately 3,000 mobile devices will be replaced.