Nokia, Deutsche Bahn Deploy First Commercial 1900MHz 5G Railway Network in Germany

Nokia and Deutsche Bahn (DB) have deployed the world’s first commercial 1900 MHz (n101) 5G standalone (SA) radio network on live railway test tracks in Germany, marking a significant step in transitioning from the legacy GSM-R system to the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). This 5G network is designed to support real-time, mission-critical communications essential for automated train operations, smart maintenance, and intelligent infrastructure, leveraging ultra-low latency, high capacity, and IoT capabilities. The deployment, located at DB’s digital railway test field in the Ore Mountains, features built-in failover, self-healing, and real-time monitoring to ensure high availability and operational efficiency. Nokia’s AirScale 1900 MHz radio, paired with a railway-optimized 5G SA core, drives this advanced digitalization effort, which also supports the European FP2-MORANE-2 project to enhance rail operations across Europe. As Europe prepares to retire GSM-R by 2035, this pioneering installation offers a commercial pathway for rail operators to migrate to the 5G-based FRMCS standard, which promises greater reliability, sustainability, and capacity for future railway communications. The collaboration highlights Nokia’s strategic focus on specialized 5G applications despite facing broader business challenges.