Ericsson to bring private 5G to Queensland's rail network

Ericsson has announced that its technology has been selected for the first stage of Queensland’s next-generation rail communications network ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. The company will provide the 5G-enabled digital radio system (DRS) technology in partnership with rail engineering firm UGL Transport and mission-critical communications company Frequentis, following the Queensland Government’s selection of the team to deliver the first phase of a next-generation rail communications network across South-East Queensland.

Awarded by the Queensland Government, the contract will see the new DRS deployed as part of Stage 1 of The Wave, a public transport and rail infrastructure program being delivered to connect Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

The DRS will provide the communications foundation to support rollout of European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, a next-generation signalling technology that enables continuous digital train control being delivered by Alstom.

As part of the project, Ericsson will deliver the 5G communications platform underpinning the solution. The technology is designed to support mission-critical rail operations and provide a pathway towards Future Railway Mobile Communications System (FRMCS) capabilities, helping improve safety, operational efficiency and network capacity.

UGL Transport, Ericsson and Frequentis will deliver the first operational section of the DRS to the Sunshine Coast line, which is a key corridor in the broader upgrade plans for Queensland’s rail network. The system will be ready to support passenger services ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“This is a significant moment for digital rail in Australia,” said Ludvig Landgren, Head of Ericsson, Australia and New Zealand. “Ericsson’s mission-critical private 5G platform will underpin Queensland’s next-generation rail communications network. We are proud to be part of the team delivering this critical infrastructure for Queensland and for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Image credit: Queensland Government