BAI Communications awarded comms contract for Sydney Metro West

Communications infrastructure provider BAI Communications has announced it has been awarded a major contract to deliver critical radio communications systems for the Sydney Metro West project, as a partner to the Metro Trains West (MTW) consortium.

Following the New South Wales Government’s December award of the Trains, Systems, Maintenance and Operations (TSMO) contract to the MTW consortium — a joint venture between MTR Corporation (Australia) and CRRC (Hong Kong) — BAI will design, deliver and integrate essential communications infrastructure across the new metro line, set to open in 2032. The contract scope encompasses:

• Mission-critical train communication systems: Delivering a private 5G network enabling operational radio systems, train communications and rail signalling.
• Public safety network connectivity: Ensuring NSW emergency services maintain reliable coverage throughout the entire corridor.
• Public mobile connectivity: Providing seamless 4G/5G coverage for Telstra, Optus and TPG customers across all stations and tunnels.
• Integrated delivery: Managing the lifecycle elements from design and installation through to testing, commissioning and operational readiness.
   

BAI Communications says this marks Australia’s first contract to deliver a 5G MCX radio communication system purpose-built to support the next generation of rail communications. The technology provides a pathway to the Future Railway Mobile Communications System (FRMCS), the new global standard set to replace legacy GSMR networks over the coming decade.

The Sydney Metro West project aims to double rail capacity between Parramatta and the Sydney CBD, with 16 driverless metro trains and 24 km of tunnel and station infrastructure.

BAI Communications has experience in managing large-scale, mission-critical networks across Australia, including national TV and radio broadcast networks and public safety networks. Prior to the separation of BAI and its sister company Boldyn Networks, the business delivered communications infrastructure for major rail systems in London, New York City, Hong Kong and other cities.

“BAI Communications is proud to be a part of this transformational project that will reshape mobility across Greater Sydney,” said Elyssa Rollinson, Chief Commercial Officer, BAI Communications. “Our expertise in managing critical, ‘always on’ communications networks positions us ideally to deliver the robust future-ready infrastructure required for a world-class metro system of this scale and sophistication. We are delighted to partner with MTW on this significant undertaking.”

“Sydney Metro West requires communications infrastructure that can support both mission-critical rail operations and the connectivity expectations of passengers today, and into the future,” said Anthony Warren, CEO Metro Trains West. “BAI Communications brings proven global expertise in delivering exactly these types of complex, integrated solutions. We’re pleased to have them as part of the team delivering this transformational project for Greater Sydney.”

The Sydney Metro West line will serve stations at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays, Pyrmont and Hunter Street, providing high-frequency services between Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.

Image credit: Sydney Metro West/NSW Government.