As part of the EU-Rail R2DATO project, Work Packages 21 and 22 focus on Absolute Safe Train Positioning (ASTP). WP21 addresses operational needs, while WP22 focuses on system architecture, design, and RAMS. Their main goals include identifying user needs and system capabilities, analyzing required performance, and defining the ASTP system architecture. This article presents current research on train localization, integrating it with digital maps, and reviews the state-of-the-art in map-matching techniques. It also discusses ongoing research and future directions, concluding with key takeaways.

The Train Communication Network (TCN), defined by IEC 61375, consists of a wired architecture with two levels: the Train Backbone Network (TBN) for inter-consist communication and the Consist Network (CN) for intra-consist communication. However, the wired system is costly and maintenance-intensive, driving the need for advanced wireless solutions. European projects propose a Next-Generation TCN (NG-TCN) with a Wireless Train Backbone Network (WLTBN). While wireless communication offers flexibility, it also brings challenges like service priority, security, and reliability. 5G technologies, particularly network slicing, show promise in addressing these challenges, but further research is needed to explore its potential in enhancing WLTBN.

Railway traffic is experiencing notable growth, but also competition from other modes of transport with considerable technological developments. An alternative for rail is through train operation optimization, both at the management level and at the train level. At the train level, the implementation of Automatic Train Operation (ATO) can be employed. This ATO facilitates efficient operation and serves as a decision-support or decision-making component depending on the level of automation. This study explores the benefits of Automatic Train Operation (ATO) technology as presented in the literature. Employing thematic content analysis and grounded theory, the study delves into peer-reviewed articles to synthesize knowledge on ATO benefits, including resource optimization, improved passenger experience, operational efficiency, and safety and reliability. These findings will offer valuable insights for stakeholders considering the implementation of ATO technology on non-metro rail lines, potentially encouraging wider adoption of this technology. While ATO also has costs and potential disadvantages, this study focus on benefits mentioned in literature.

Train-trackside communication is essential for safe and efficient railway operations, with evolving requirements to handle increasing traffic. Currently, systems like GSM-R facilitate crucial data exchange for voice communication, emergency calls, and Automatic Train Protection (ATP). However, as GSM-R becomes outdated and will reach the end of its lifecycle by 2030, new communication technologies are needed. The Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) is being developed as a successor to GSM-R, aiming to modernize railway communications. Various research projects, such as 5GRAIL and Europe’s Rail FP2 R2DATO, are contributing to this transition.

The increasing digitalisation and interconnectedness of railway systems have highlighted the need for strong cybersecurity measures, as demonstrated by incidents like the sabotage of trains in Poland. With evolving threats such as ransomware and DDoS attacks, continuous vigilance is essential. Regulatory efforts, including EU directives like the Cybersecurity Act and NIS 2, aim to strengthen cybersecurity in the transportation sector. This work focuses on assessing cybersecurity risks for the Virtually Coupled Train Set (VCTS) design within the R2DATO EU Rail project, using methodologies from the Shift2Rail initiative. The goal is to identify vulnerabilities, evaluate risks, and ensure compliance with standards like IEC 62443 to enhance railway system security.

On 5 and 6 June, the Norwegian Railways Directorate hosted an international event for the FP2 R2DATO rail joint venture. One of the highlights was the demonstration of remote control of a tram in Sporveien, Oslo, a major innovation that could improve the management of trams and trains. A preliminary report on the R2DATO architecture was discussed on 5 June, with constructive feedback. On 6 June, the steering committee discussed future strategies. The event was also an opportunity to strengthen international links, with networking, tapas and beautiful views of Oslo.