Nokia and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have deployed the world’s first 5G private network based on the 1900 MHz (n101) frequency band on outdoor operational test tracks, along with a commercial railway wireless solution featuring a 5G independent (SA) core network. This industry breakthrough enables DB to operate modern mobile networks on the frequency bands specifically designated for 5G railway communication in Europe, laying the foundation for future railway mobile communication systems (FRMCS), achieving more resilient, efficient, and sustainable railway operations through higher levels of digitization, greater capacity, and more reliable services.

This deployment marks a crucial step for the railway industry from the traditional Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM-R) to the 5G based FRMCS standard. FRMCS is designed specifically for real-time, mission critical infrastructure and train to train communication, supporting fully automated railways and integrating advanced technologies such as AI to create a more competitive and adaptable industry for the future.

Deutsche Bahn has stated that it hopes to upgrade railway communication infrastructure with modern 5G communication, and collaborating with technology experts such as Nokia is key to introducing the latest innovations into actual operations. The deployment on this test track is based on the successful pre FRMCS 5G trial by both parties, aiming to standardize private mobile networks and lay the foundation for subsequent pilot and comprehensive promotion.

The head of Nokia Europe stated that Nokia and DB have been pioneers in promoting FRMCS and are pleased to deliver the world’s first commercial 5G solution using the 1900 MHz frequency band on railway lines. This milestone will bring key benefits to DB, including automated train operations, intelligent maintenance, and smart infrastructure and stations. We believe that this release will set an important benchmark for the FRMCS upgrade of the global railway network in the coming years.

The relevant technology has been implemented at DB’s digital railway test site located in the Ers Mountains of Germany, running on real trains. The solution has built-in fault switching, self-healing capabilities, and real-time monitoring to ensure high availability and efficiency. This plan will also be used for the European FP2-MORANE-2 project, further promoting the digitalization of European railways based on the existing FRMCS initiative.

The contract continues the existing testing between DB and Nokia based on the 5G SA core network and 3700 MHz (n78) wireless network, and upgrades to a new solution that includes Nokia AirScale series 1900 MHz (n101) 5G wireless devices and optimized 5G SA core, supporting smooth migration from GSM-R to FRMCS, meeting the high reliability and low latency requirements of modern railways.