Hitachi Rail’s ERTMS Revolution: Warsaw-Radom Upgrade

Hitachi Rail to Spearhead Digital Signalling Revolution on Key Warsaw-Radom Route in Poland

Poland – May 16, 2025

Poland’s railway network is poised for a significant technological advancement as Hitachi Rail, in collaboration with DP System, embarks on a pivotal project to deploy a state-of-the-art digital signalling system on the crucial Warsaw-Radom railway line. This initiative, centred around the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2, heralds a new era of efficiency and reliability for passengers commuting between Radom, Warka, Piaseczno, and the capital, Warsaw. The project underscores a broader commitment to modernizing Poland’s rail infrastructure, leveraging advanced technologies like the European Train Control System (ETCS) and Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (GSM-R). This article will delve into the specifics of this transformative undertaking, exploring the technological underpinnings, Hitachi Rail’s expanding contributions to Polish rail digitalization, and the wider implications for the nation’s transportation landscape, promising shorter journey times and enhanced operational safety.

Strategic Modernization on a Key Polish Corridor

The Warsaw-Radom railway line, designated as Line 8, is a vital artery in Poland’s national rail network, facilitating essential passenger and freight movement. The recently announced project, a collaborative effort between Hitachi Rail and DP System, targets this corridor for a comprehensive signalling upgrade. Valued at 85 million zlotys (approximately $22.3 million), this initiative is scheduled for completion by December 2027. Its primary objective is to significantly shorten journey times for passengers travelling between key regional cities such as Radom, Warka, and Piaseczno, and the capital city, Warsaw. This enhancement is not just about speed; it’s about delivering a more reliable and predictable service, which is crucial for daily commuters and regional economic activity. The modernization of Line 8 is a strategic investment, reflecting Poland’s commitment to improving intercity connectivity and bringing its rail infrastructure up to par with leading European standards. By focusing on this particular route, authorities aim to alleviate congestion and provide a more attractive public transport alternative.

The Technological Leap: ERTMS Level 2 Explained

The cornerstone of the Warsaw-Radom line upgrade is the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Level 2. This advanced signalling and train control system represents a significant technological advancement over conventional systems. ERTMS Level 2 primarily utilizes the European Train Control System (ETCS), which provides continuous supervision of train speed and movement authority. Unlike lineside signals used in traditional systems (or ETCS Level 1), ETCS Level 2 relies on radio-based communication via Global System for Mobile Communications – Railway (GSM-R). This dedicated and resilient mobile network facilitates a constant data exchange between the train’s on-board equipment and trackside Radio Block Centres (RBCs).
These RBCs, two of which will be installed at Local Control Stations (LCS) in Okęcie (Warsaw) and Radom as part of this project, are the brains of the system on the ground. They interpret track occupancy data and movement authorities from the interlocking systems and transmit them directly to the train’s cab. This allows for real-time updates on track conditions ahead, enabling dynamic speed adjustments and even automatic braking if necessary, thus greatly enhancing safety and optimizing line capacity. The continuous communication ensures that drivers always have the most current information, reducing reliance on visual sighting of lineside signals and allowing for operations at closer headways.

Hitachi Rail’s Expanding Footprint in Poland’s Rail Digitalization

Hitachi Rail’s involvement in the Warsaw-Radom project is part of a much larger engagement in the modernization of Poland’s railways. The company has already successfully deployed its ETCS Level 2 technology on nearly 1,500 kilometres of railway lines across the country, demonstrating a significant and growing expertise in the Polish operational environment. As Paweł Przyżycki, CEO of Hitachi Rail Poland, stated, “Poland is one of the key markets in Europe for Hitachi. Our ambition is to continue our growth and actively participate in the creation of a modern, reliable, digital and sustainable railway here.”
Beyond the high-specification ERTMS Level 2 systems, Hitachi Rail is also instrumental in implementing ETCS Level 1 solutions. Notably, the company is the sole provider of the ETCS Limited Supervision system in Poland. This system, a testament to collaborative innovation, was developed in partnership with esteemed Polish institutions, including the Association of Engineers and Technicians of Communication of the Republic of Poland and the Warsaw University of Technology. The ETCS Limited Supervision system enhances safety on lines not yet equipped with full Level 2 by actively monitoring train movements and transmitting crucial data directly to drivers, thereby acting as an overlay to existing systems and replacing antiquated technologies from the mid-20th century. A prime example of its application is the Poznań – Wągrowiec line.

Building a Network of Control and Ensuring Future Readiness

The successful operation of advanced signalling systems like ERTMS relies heavily on robust ground infrastructure, particularly Local Control Stations (LCS). These facilities are critical hubs for managing rail traffic safely and efficiently over extensive track sections. In 2024 alone, Hitachi Rail commissioned ten such LCSs, extending their modern traffic safety management across more than 512 kilometres of Polish railway lines. To date, the company has established a total of 24 LCS facilities throughout Poland. A notable example is the advanced LCS in Białystok, which meticulously oversees approximately 70 kilometres of track between Czyżew and Białystok, showcasing the capability to manage complex rail operations.
This consistent delivery of critical infrastructure underscores Hitachi Rail’s long-term commitment and capability in executing large-scale railway modernization projects. This experience is not confined to Poland; for instance, Hitachi Rail recently announced the successful upgrade of a 60-kilometre railway segment between Rakos station in Budapest and Hatvan in eastern Hungary. Such projects demonstrate a transferable expertise in deploying sophisticated signalling and control systems across diverse European railway networks, further solidifying Poland’s choice of partner for its ambitious rail digitalization goals and ensuring the nation’s rail network is prepared for future demands in terms of capacity, safety, and interoperability.

Conclusion

The deployment of ERTMS Level 2 technology by Hitachi Rail on the Warsaw-Radom line represents a landmark achievement in Poland’s ongoing railway modernization efforts. This 85 million zloty project, slated for completion by December 2027, is not merely an upgrade; it’s a fundamental transformation that promises tangible benefits for passengers through significantly reduced travel times and increased service reliability for key urban centres connected to Warsaw. The core of this advancement lies in the sophisticated interplay of ETCS Level 2 and GSM-R, ensuring continuous, real-time communication between trains and control centres, thereby enhancing safety and operational efficiency. This intelligent system allows for optimized train movements and a proactive approach to incident prevention, marking a clear departure from older, less adaptive signalling technologies.
Beyond this specific corridor, Hitachi Rail’s commitment to the Polish railway sector is extensive and multifaceted. Their work encompasses the implementation of nearly 1,500km of ETCS Level 2 lines, the pioneering ETCS Limited Supervision system developed with local expertise, and the establishment of numerous Local Control Stations (LCS), including the advanced facility in Białystok. These initiatives collectively contribute to replacing outdated infrastructure with cutting-edge digital solutions that are crucial for interoperability with wider European rail networks. As Poland strives for a more modern, reliable, digital, and sustainable railway network, Hitachi Rail’s expertise and continued investment are proving instrumental in realizing this vision, ultimately fostering improved connectivity, boosting economic activity through more efficient transport links, and delivering a significantly enhanced passenger experience across the national rail system for years to come.

Company Summaries:

Hitachi Rail:
Hitachi Rail is a global provider of rail solutions across rolling stock, signalling, service & maintenance, digital technology, and turnkey projects. The company is committed to contributing to society through the development of superior, original technology and products, with a strong focus on innovation in digital and green mobility. Hitachi Rail has a significant presence in Europe and is actively involved in the deployment of ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System) and other advanced railway systems to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability of rail transport.

DP System:
DP System is a partner collaborating with Hitachi Rail on the Warsaw-Radom line ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System) Level 2 deployment project in Poland. While specific details about DP System’s broader portfolio are not extensively covered in the announcement, its involvement in such a technologically advanced and critical infrastructure project suggests expertise in areas complementary to Hitachi Rail’s signalling technology, potentially including system integration, local deployment logistics, or specific aspects of railway infrastructure works within the Polish context.