AŽD’s Hungarian Rail Upgrade: StationSWing ESA 44-HU

AŽD modernizes Hungarian railway signaling, installing digital interlocking systems for improved efficiency and ETCS readiness.

AŽD’s Hungarian Rail Upgrade: StationSWing ESA 44-HU
September 7, 2025 10:12 am

Introduction

AŽD has commissioned the StationSWing ESA 44-HU digital interlocking system in the Hungarian stations of Szeged-Rendező and Röszke on the Szeged – Röszke – HU/SRB border line. The project, where AŽD acts as a subcontractor of R-KORD, part of V-Híd holding, involves the modernization of signaling equipment, enhancing operational efficiency and safety, and preparing the infrastructure for ETCS deployment.

Project Overview

AŽD installed the fully digital StationSWing ESA 44-HU digital interlocking system in the Szeged-Rendező and Röszke stations in Hungary. The delivery also included integrated line signaling equipment, level crossings, track circuits, and the trackside part installation of ETCS Level L1, planned for activation in the project’s next phase.

Collaboration and Development

AŽD and R-KORD collaborated in Hungary on the development, production, and installation of railway signaling. This cooperation involved utilizing Czech expertise and tools in manufacturing the final equipment in Hungary. Additionally, software was developed specifically tailored to meet Hungarian requirements, in accordance with the standards of the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV Zrt.).

Strategic Significance

The Szeged – Röszke – border with Serbia railway line is a crucial corridor, linking Hungary to Serbia and the broader Balkan region. This line is part of the historical rail network that connects Szeged (Hungary) with Subotica (Serbia), crossing the border at Röszke–Horgoš. Originally, it was a single-track, non-electrified route constructed in the 19th century. The Hungarian segment spans roughly 12.6 km, while the Serbian section, from Subotica through Horgoš to the border, extends about 26.6 km.

Project Goals

The project’s goal is to enhance operational efficiency and safety by implementing advanced digital systems. It aims to prepare the infrastructure for ETCS deployment and facilitate cross-border interoperability within the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T).

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Conclusion

The modernization project on the Szeged – Röszke – HU/SRB border railway line involves the installation of digital interlocking systems and other advanced technologies by AŽD and R-KORD, with the goal of improving operational efficiency and preparing for ETCS deployment.

Company Summary

AŽD: AŽD is acting as a subcontractor in this project.

R-KORD: R-KORD is part of the V-Híd holding and is a partner in the project.

Hungarian State Railways (MÁV Zrt.): The Hungarian State Railways’ requirements were considered in the software development.