SYSTRA Supports Sydney Trains Digital Radio Transition

Urban rail operations and railway telecommunications infrastructure depend on resilient, standards-compliant communication systems to ensure safe and efficient train operations. A newly announced partnership focuses on preparing the next phase of digital train radio capability across the Sydney rail network, addressing equipment obsolescence while aligning with long-term industry standards.

Under the agreement, SYSTRA will work with Sydney Trains to support the development of a business case and an integration plan for the NextGen Digital Train Radio System (DTRS). The program is intended to modernize a core operational communication platform used across the Sydney Trains network.

Preparing the transition from GSM-R to FRMCS
The Digital Train Radio System provides the primary communication link between trains and operational control systems. The planned upgrade is designed to improve reliability and performance while supporting the transition from the existing GSM-R platform toward the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), the next-generation global standard for railway communications.

By addressing technology obsolescence and defining a staged migration path, the program aims to reduce operational risk while maintaining service continuity. The upgraded DTRS is also positioned as an enabling platform for future digital applications that rely on dependable, low-latency communication.

Integration planning and investment support
As part of the partnership, SYSTRA will provide advisory services and integration planning to inform investment decisions and phased delivery. This includes aligning telecommunications, systems integration, and asset management considerations to ensure interoperability across existing and future rail systems.

According to Tom Warner, Executive General Manager Systems at SYSTRA Australia & New Zealand, the focus is on delivering “a smooth, standards-aligned transition” by combining local delivery expertise with international experience in rail communications and systems integration.

From the operator perspective, Andrew Constantinou, Program Director for the Digital Train Radio System at Sydney Trains, highlighted that upgrading train radio capability is a key factor in supporting reliable operations and ensuring safety for both network users and operational teams.

The program establishes a structured framework for modernizing train radio communications while preparing the Sydney Trains network for the adoption of FRMCS-based technologies.

www.systra.com