Basque Railway Network Takes Leap Towards European Standard Train Protection System with Thales

Basque Railway Network Takes Leap Towards European Standard Train Protection System with Thales

(IN BRIEF) Thales has secured a significant contract with Euskal Trenbide Sarea (ETS-RFV) to install the first ERTMS Level 1 automatic train protection system on the Basque Euskadi network. This project, with a budget exceeding 13 million Euros, marks the initial step in replacing the existing Seltrac Euroloop system with a European standard and interoperable train protection system. The contract includes three phases, starting with a pilot section and the setup of an ERTMS Central Station. Thales will also provide maintenance services for the new installations. The collaboration between Thales and ETS dates back to 1995, and Thales has extensive experience with ERTMS Level 1 deployment worldwide.

(PRESS RELEASE) PARIS, 27-Nov-2023 — /EuropaWire/ —  Thales (EPA: HO), a French multinational company active in the aerospace, defence, transportation and security markets, is proud to announce a new contract with Euskal Trenbide Sarea (ETS-RFV) for the installation of the first ERTMS Level 1 automatic train protection system on the Euskadi network. Leveraging its extensive experience and proven track record with this system, Thales has already deployed over 2,700 kilometers of ERTMS Level 1 in Spain, Turkey, Mexico, Senegal, and Greece.

This groundbreaking contract represents a significant investment by Euskal Trenbide Sarea (ETS-RFV), with a budget exceeding 13 million Euros. It marks a pivotal moment as the Basque railway network takes its first step toward replacing the Seltrac Euroloop system and implementing a European standard and interoperable automatic train protection system.

Under this agreement, Thales will execute the contract in three phases. The project’s commencement involves establishing a pilot section between the Araso and Hendaye facilities in France, followed by the Usurbil-Araso section. Simultaneously, Thales will set up an ERTMS Central Station equipped with two Command Posts to manage the new system.

To ensure the system’s successful installation, a detailed engineering study tailored to the unique characteristics of the ETS network will precede the construction project’s drafting.

The adoption of this European standard signaling system is set to enable technical interoperability and standardize interfaces and protocols between Euskotren trains’ onboard equipment and the ETS track infrastructure. This initiative will bring the Basque railway network in line with European rail standards, enhancing safety, reliability, and technological capabilities.

The project has a projected timeline of 60 months, including 45 months dedicated to the maintenance of the new installations. With a budget exceeding 13 million Euros, this endeavor represents a crucial initial phase in replacing the Seltrac Euroloop system throughout the Basque railway network with a European standard and interoperable automatic train protection system.

Thales has a long history of providing maintenance services for various railway lines worldwide, including 13 years of installing its technology on the ETS network. This experience underscores Thales’ capacity and expertise in ensuring the seamless operability of ERTMS Level 1 for the contracted section.

Thales and Euskal Trenbide Sarea (ETS): Pioneering Basque Mobility

The partnership between Thales and ETS commenced in 1995 with the installation of the Seltrac Euroloop system in the Basque Country. This train protection system, incorporating on-board and on-track equipment, has proven its adaptability and capability over the years, accommodating different types of trains and freight engines.

Over time, this collaboration has facilitated the deployment of various technologies, including electric and electronic interlockings, CTC control stations, switch drives, axle counters of different generations, and jointless track circuits.

With this new contract, Thales continues to build on its extensive experience and reliability with ERTMS, further enhancing Basque mobility. Thales has already demonstrated its proficiency by deploying over 2,700 kilometers of ERTMS Level 1 in Spain, Turkey, Mexico, Senegal, and Greece.

Media contact:

Cédric Leurquin
Deputy Group Communications Director
+33 (0)6 31 01 53 25
cedric.leurquin@thalesgroup.com

SOURCE: Thales