The Public Transport Authority of Western Australia (PTA) has chosen Nokia to upgrade its railway communication system using private wireless and IP/MPLS technology over the next ten years.
The PTA has contracted Nokia and Networks Australia to design, build and maintain a $A327 million ($US 230.7 million) next-generation communications system for the Metronet network in Perth.
The long-term plan for Perth’s future is the Metronet infrastructure and public transportation initiative, which includes integrated land use and transportation framework that will sustain the growth of the Perth metropolitan region for the next 50 to 100 years.
The deal will create more than 160 4.9G/LTE radio stations as part of the program, including a new Metronet track and tunnels covering 250km of railway.
The system aims to upgrade the PTA’s existing narrowband rail radio systems, swapping out the antiquated analogue technology for a cutting-edge 4.9G/LTE digital platform required for exceptionally dependable mission-critical phone, high-speed data, and video services.
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The Critical Infrastructure Act of 2021 governs the project to replace the radio system, and it has the option of including a complete cyber security fabric throughout all solution components.
The solution will be based on Nokia private 4.9G/LTE mission-critical IP/MPLS, datacentre fabric, and microwave backhaul solutions.
Head of enterprise for Oceania at Nokia, Rob McCabe, said “We are thrilled to partner with PTA for this prestigious project to design, build and maintain the next-generation railway communications network.
“Powered by Nokia’s private wireless network solution, the new railway communications system will help enhance the accuracy of the system, leading to improved experience and safety. Nokia is at the forefront of supporting railway networks to accelerate digital transformation for more efficient operations while delivering greater value to the passengers.”
The West Australian government terminated a $A206 million contract with Huawei two years ago. With the failed deal, Huawei and engineering company UGL will get $A6.6 million in compensation from the government.
You may also want to read: Junked Huawei deal is going to cost WA taxpayers $6.6m (commsroom.co)
Jaw de Guzman is the content producer for Comms Room, a knowledge platform and website aimed at assisting the communications industry and its professionals.
