The communication systems powering Spain’s railways are showing their age.
Built on outdated technologies, they can no longer scale to meet today’s demands or align with future innovations.
For example, many train-to-ground communication networks rely on first- and second-generation technology. As a result, they can’t support modern features that improve safety, efficiency, and reliability.
The MoySEST (Mission Critical Services y Sistemas de Transporte) project aims to solve these challenges by introducing FRMCS (Future Railway Mobile Communication System).
This new standard, backed by a consortium of industry leaders like Kenmei, will transform Spain’s railways and prepare them for the future.
Here, we will explore current challenges in the railway system and explain our role in improving lines through Spain.
Legacy communication systems mean less security, autonomy & efficiency
Although the railway sector is ready for growth, aging infrastructure makes modernization difficult.
Current communication systems, like GSM-R, ETSI TETRA, and DMR, offer limited bandwidth and outdated functionality. These limitations prevent the use of modern applications such as real-time video monitoring, autonomous train operation, and seamless data sharing.
Older network technologies simply lack the ability to support modern networking requirements.
Security is also a growing concern. Older systems weren’t designed to face today’s cyber threats, leaving networks vulnerable. Without upgrades, rail operators risk falling behind in automation, safety, and efficiency.
This is where 5G-based train-to-ground communication comes in. The MoySEST project is improving interoperability, security, and efficiency, enabling Spain’s railway system to meet modern standards and future goals.
Why 5G and FRMCS Matter
5G technology is key to overcoming the limits of legacy railway systems. It supports faster data exchange and greater reliability, crucial for real-time applications.
FRMCS, the next-generation successor to GSM-R, is designed for the digital railway of the future. Built on the 3GPP MCX framework, FRMCS supports high-bandwidth services. Some uses include live video transmission, automated control systems, and advanced safety measures.
Older technologies can’t meet these demands for several reasons. 5G and FRMCS bring flexibility, scalability, and intelligence to railway communications.
Artificial intelligence further enhances these systems. AI helps manage traffic, predict and respond to issues, and improve overall security. Together, 5G, FRMCS, and AI will power smarter, safer, and more efficient rail networks.
The MoySEST Project: Building the Future of Spain’s Railways
Funded through the UNICO5G program, MoySEST will transform Spain’s railways, trams, and metro lines.
Spain’s high-speed rail network already spans nearly 4,000 km, the second-longest in the world after China. The first trials of MoySEST will start in Spain in controlled test areas during 2025.
The MoySEST consortium is led by Teltronic, an organization working on digital transformation projects around the globe. Supported by Kenmei, S2 Grupo, and Nemergent, MoySEST has set several key goals:
- Enhance network monitoring
- Accelerate 5G and FRMCS adoption across Spain’s railways.
- Develop data models and decoders for Big Data and multi-cloud architectures.
- Improve telecom analysis with an advanced graphical interface.
- Optimize deployed networks to maintain service quality.
- Strengthen cybersecurity and interoperability in line with global standards.
These efforts will create a scalable, replicable model for European railways and promote worldwide adoption.
Benefits and Applications of MoySEST
Modernizing communications will bring a range of benefits, making lines safer and more efficient.
FRMCS will support several mission-critical services:
- Push-to-Talk (MCPTT) for instant, reliable voice communication.
- Real-time data-based signaling (MCDATA) for precise train control.
- Live video streaming (MCVIDEO) to enhance security and operational oversight.
The FRMCS serves as a kind of nervous system that provides reliable communication between systems.
With these tools, MoySEST will unlock new possibilities for Spain’s railways:
- Real-time communication between trains and control centers, improving safety and enabling greater automation.
- More reliable data transfer for operational updates that benefit railway operators and passengers.
- High-speed data exchange at stations and depots, making system updates and diagnostics quicker.
- Remote inspection using drones and IoT sensors that assist with maintenance and reduce manual workloads.
- Advanced video-based surveillance powered by AI to detect and respond to security threats in real time.
Kenmei’s Contribution to MoySEST
As part of the MoySEST consortium, Kenmei is proud to help deliver a next-generation railway communication system that will serve as a model for the rest of Europe.
Kenmei’s role focuses on applying AI-based network optimization to:
- Develop intelligent tools that set benchmarks and monitor 5G RAN performance.
- Use predictive analytics for real-time network adjustments and load balancing.
- Ensure high-quality service for mission-critical applications.
The project is in its final stages, and we’re already seeing tangible results. Soon, we’ll share more details on the project’s outcomes and its impact on the railway industry.
Looking Ahead
MoySEST marks a major milestone in modernizing Spain’s railway communications. By integrating 5G, FRMCS, and AI, the project will create a faster, safer, and more efficient railway system.
As the project wraps up, it’s clear that MoySEST’s advancements will influence railway operations across Europe and beyond. The data and insights gained will help refine railway operations and set the stage for future improvements.
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Funded by the European Union - NextGenerationEU
MoySEST is one of the initiatives selected in the 2022 UNICO Sectorial 5G call, the program to promote 5G driving projects for sectorial digitalization funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Digital Transformation and the European Union - NextGenerationEU within the framework of the Recovery, Transformation, and Resilience Plan.
You can learn more about MoySEST here.
