Alstom has successfully delivered and activated the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) on Sweden’s Iron Ore Line, or Malmbanan, one of the country’s most important freight corridors. This marks the first rollout of the new signalling standard outside Sweden’s pilot projects and is expected to boost reliability and reduce maintenance needs on this critical railway.
The upgrade was carried out in partnership with the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket), with the transition to ERTMS following an initial interim phase using Automatic Train Control (ATC). The newly installed system is now fully operational in key sections including Linaälv, Gällivare, Kiruna, and part of Björkliden.
“This is a significant step in the modernisation of Sweden’s railway network. It’s an honour to support Trafikverket in deploying this advanced system on a line as vital as Malmbanan,” said Maria Signal-Martebo, Managing Director of Alstom Sweden. “Our strong local expertise and understanding of the region’s signalling and operational conditions were key to the project’s success.”
Alstom’s Swedish engineering teams, based in Stockholm and Hässleholm, led the development, equipment supply, testing, and training. Their in-depth knowledge of Malmbanan’s infrastructure and operations played a central role in the delivery.
The ERTMS solution includes Alstom’s Onvia Control system for train control, Onvia Lock for interlocking, and is managed through the Onvia Vision traffic platform. This integrated approach ensures smooth coordination between legacy and modern systems, supporting efficient and reliable railway operations.
The project draws on insights from Alstom’s previous ERTMS installations on the Ådalen (Ådalsbanan) and Bothnia (Botniabanan) lines. Alstom’s long-standing presence in Sweden and close work with Trafikverket were key factors in delivering the project successfully.
Alstom remains a leading player in Sweden’s rail sector, with over a thousand trains in service across the country and major ongoing maintenance contracts. The company also leads the national rollout of ERTMS, both on rolling stock and trackside, helping to modernise and future-proof the country’s railway infrastructure.
