The expected obsolescence of GSM-R and the need to enable digitalisation in train operations has led the European railway sector to set a global plan for the definition of a new radio system, the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), as presented in the EU-Rail System Pillar Report on FRMCS V2 and V3 Scope and Planning.

Starting from the FRMCS V2 Specifications, as published by the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) in December 2024, there is a need to verify, complete or amend these specifications through a full testing of FRMCS functions and system, leading then to market ready V3 Specifications. This operational testing is precisely the objective of FP2-MORANE-2 (MObile radio for RAilway Networks in Europe).

The first step of the testing activities will be achieved in 3 different labs, run by Ericsson, Nokia and Kontron. They will be followed by 5 different field tests, operated on two railway tracks from ADIF, one from DB, one from TRAFIKVERKET and one from PRORAIL. 4 of these lines are conventional, the 5th, in ADIF network, being a high-speed line. The PRORAIL line will welcome a MNO, KPN.

The FP2-MORANE-2 project, coordinated by UIC, takes advantage of the participation of 13 European railways, from which 7 will act as associated partners. It regroups the expertise of 13 product manufacturers, all recognised as key players in the FRMCS domain, and finally benefits from the contribution of UNIFE.

FP2-MORANE-2 will set the way for FRMCS deployments in Europe.