Nokia unveils first 5G radio for 1900 MHz band to accelerate global rollout of FRMCS in railways

Nokia unveils first 5G radio for 1900 MHz band to accelerate global rollout of FRMCS in railways

(IN BRIEF) Nokia has launched the industry’s first commercial 5G radio for the 1900 MHz band alongside its optimized 5G standalone core for railways, setting the stage for the transition to the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). Designed to provide high-speed, resilient, and mission-critical communications, the solution allows rail operators to modernize operations while maintaining coexistence with legacy GSM-R systems. Benefits include support for automated train operations, predictive maintenance, enhanced passenger services, and improved sustainability through reduced emissions. The solution will also be tested under the EU-funded FP2-MORANE-2 project. Nokia’s offering, backed by decades of GSM-R expertise and compliant with strict cybersecurity standards, is positioned to drive the next era of safe, efficient, and sustainable rail transport.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 27-Aug-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Nokia has unveiled a new 5G-based broadband radio solution designed specifically for the railway sector, enabling rail operators worldwide to accelerate their transition to the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). The launch marks the industry’s first commercial 5G radio for the 1900 MHz (n101) band and is supported by Nokia’s purpose-built Core Enterprise Solution for Railways. Together, the technologies deliver high-speed, high-capacity and low-latency connectivity essential for automated operations, sustainable transport and improved passenger services.

FRMCS, set to replace the aging GSM-R system in the coming decade, is the next-generation global standard for railway communications. Built on 5G technology, it brings integrated security, robust reliability and advanced digital capabilities that will enable more automation, improved cross-border coordination, and new digital applications for the rail industry.

Nokia has decades of experience deploying GSM-R systems across more than 20 countries and has been a leading contributor to FRMCS development. By combining its expertise with a future-ready 5G solution, the company is helping railways modernize operations while ensuring compatibility with existing networks. The solution supports strategic coexistence, allowing operators to introduce 5G alongside GSM-R without disruption, paving the way for a smooth and scalable migration.

“Our commercial 5G solution reflects Nokia’s long-standing commitment to railway innovation and modernization,” said Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia. “As rail operators face increasing demands for digitalization, high-speed data, and enhanced safety, this technology provides the foundation for a new era of rail transport that is efficient, sustainable, and passenger-focused.”

The fully cloud-native 5G standalone (SA) core, optimized for the transport sector, provides the full suite of FRMCS functionalities for mission-critical communications. Its modular and scalable design supports both regional and nationwide deployment strategies. The system will also be tested under the EU-funded FP2-MORANE-2 project, which aims to further advance the digitalization of European rail operations.

The introduction of Nokia’s 5G radio solution is expected to transform railways with applications such as automated train control, predictive maintenance, real-time passenger information systems, and integrated mission-critical voice, video and data communications. These capabilities not only enhance operational efficiency and passenger experience but also help reduce energy consumption and emissions, contributing to sustainability goals.

Nokia’s new railway solution combines its AirScale 5G radio portfolio with its optimized 5G SA core and is complemented by its mission-critical IP, optical and data center networking products. Built with best-in-class cybersecurity frameworks and compliant with the highest industry standards, the solution is designed to ensure safety, resilience, and long-term adaptability for the global railway sector.

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SOURCE: Nokia