ADIF tenders 175 million euro GSM-R renewal on Spanish high speed lines
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ADIF tenders 175 million euro GSM-R renewal on Spanish high speed lines
ADIF seeks contractor for 48-month GSM-R renewal and maintenance contract worth 175 million euros on Spanish high speed routes.
Main source: ADIF seeks contractor to maintain and renew GSM-R equipment on its high speed lines · By Rail Post Desk
Spanish infrastructure manager ADIF has launched a tender for the renewal, operation and maintenance of the GSM-R telecommunications network on its high speed lines, along with associated energy systems.
The 48-month contract is valued at 175 million euros and covers GSM-R mobile telecommunications facilities, fixed telecommunications equipment, video surveillance and access control systems. This includes equipment supporting safe operations and maintenance of tunnels on the high speed network.
ADIF expects the winning contractor to manage mobile providers’ infrastructure and the control equipment for communications-related power supplies. The routes covered include the Madrid – Valladolid, Madrid – Barcelona – French border, Madrid – Valencia and Madrid – Sevilla high speed corridors, as well as connecting routes and branches serving destinations such as Albacete, Camp de Tarragona, Malaga and Toledo.
The infrastructure manager says the winning bidder will be encouraged to deliver ‘improvement actions’ that allow for a reduction in maintenance costs, energy savings, and enhancements paving the way for future technology upgrades.
The 2G-based GSM-R mobile telecoms platform, used by railways across Europe, is gradually reaching life expiry. The 5G-based Future Railway Mobile Communications System is expected to replace it over the next 10-15 years, according to railwaygazette.com.
This tender reflects a broader industry trend as operators and infrastructure managers prepare for the eventual migration to FRMCS. The contract’s scope, including tunnel safety systems, underscores the critical role of reliable communications in high speed rail operations.
Interested contractors will need to demonstrate capability in managing complex telecoms infrastructure and delivering long-term maintenance solutions. The tender also signals ADIF’s commitment to modernising its network while optimising operational costs.
With a contract duration of four years, the successful bidder will play a key role in sustaining the performance and safety of Spain’s high speed rail network during a period of technological transition.
For more details, see the original report on railwaygazette.com.