Under a recent framework agreement with Deutsche Bahn Netz AG, Nokia (News - Alert) Siemens Networks will expand its GSM Railway (GSM-R) communications along an additional 7,000 kilometers of the passenger rail routes.

 

Because the system carries signaling and operational information directly to the driver, it enables higher speeds and greater traffic density with improved safety. Deutsche Bahn also aims to reduce its operating costs by replacing all existing voice and data communication systems with GSM-R, a single streamlined digital radio system.

 

Nokia Siemens (News - Alert) Networks will also supply a complete GSM-R radio solution, including base stations, base station controllers, network management as well as integration, installation, upgrades and services for 15 years support. The company is all set to start the project in the first quarter of 2008. The first installation phase is scheduled for completion by 2008/2009.

 

Hartmut Müller-Leitloff, a regional head at Nokia Siemens Networks (News - Alert) said in a statement that after intensively evaluating the technical performance and the whole networks life cycle for the GSM-R network extension Deutsche Bahn chose Nokia Siemens Networks for this important project. He emphasized that Nokia Siemens Networks global leadership in GSM-R and vast experience deploying GSM-R networks worldwide influenced DB AG decision to sign this agreement with them.

 

Noting that this GSM-R contract is an important milestone for them in Germany and in the region, Müller-Leitloff said that winning such a high profile contract with Deutsche Bahn not only enhances their leadership in this field, but also demonstrates their customers’ endorsement of the merger that formed Nokia Siemens Networks.

 

“We will continue to support the railways by providing advanced technology, solutions and strong railway know how as well as the most reliable services,” he added.