Nokia Unveils 5G Radio Solution for Rail Operators, Accelerating FRMCS Transition

Nokia has launched a new 5G radio solution for rail operators, designed to deliver high-capacity, high-performance, and resilient real-time communications to support the upcoming FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System) global standard. The solution includes a commercial 5G radio for the 1900 MHz band and Nokia's Core Enterprise Solution for Railways, aimed at accelerating the industry's digital transformation.

Nokia has unveiled a comprehensive 5G radio solution designed to support the upcoming Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) global standard. The solution is aimed at delivering high-capacity, high-performance, and resilient real-time communications to rail operators worldwide, marking a significant step towards the digital transformation of the railway sector.

The new 5G radio solution, launched on 27 August 2025, includes a commercial 5G radio for the 1900 MHz band, which is part of Nokia's industry-leading AirScale portfolio. This is paired with Nokia's Core Enterprise Solution for Railways, a purpose-built solution designed to accelerate the sector's digital transformation. The solution is built for mission-critical communications and supports strategic coexistence, allowing railways to migrate to 5G alongside legacy systems like GSM-R with no disruption.

The new 5G radio solution is expected to bring several benefits to rail operators and passengers alike. Automated train operations can be enabled through real-time control and monitoring, improving safety and efficiency while decreasing energy consumption and emissions. Passenger information systems will provide real-time updates and information, enhancing the travel experience. Mission-critical voice communication will integrate voice, video, and data services into a single, standardized platform, enhancing operations and infrastructure management. Smart rail maintenance will utilize predictive maintenance and real-time monitoring to reduce downtime and maintenance costs.

Nokia's commitment to driving the digital transformation of the railway sector is evident in this new solution. The company's extensive portfolio of mission-critical IP, optical, and data center networking products complements the new 5G radio solution, ensuring it is compliant with the highest standards and features a best-in-class cybersecurity framework. The solution will also be tested under the EU-funded FP2-MORANE-2 project, which aims to advance the digitalization of rail operations across Europe.

The shift to a 5G solution introduces powerful capabilities that align perfectly with the operational needs of modern railways, particularly in border crossing scenarios. Nokia's decades of experience in GSM-R deployments across more than 20 countries position the company as a global leader in railway communications. The new 5G radio solution reflects Nokia's commitment to laying the foundation for the next generation of railway operations, offering a future-proof, flexible technology platform that supports a smooth transition to FRMCS while improving operational efficiency, safety, and the overall passenger experience.

References:

[1] https://www.nasdaq.com/press-release/nokia-unveils-commercial-5g-solution-next-gen-digital-railway-operations-supporting
[2] https://www.morningstar.com/news/globe-newswire/1001124745/nokia-unveils-commercial-5g-solution-for-next-gen-digital-railway-operations-supporting-frmcs