Deutsche Bahn (DB) Selects Mermec Deutschland for Rail Network Modernization

Back to news 11 February 2025

Mermec Deutschland Selected by Deutsche Bahn (DB) for Rail Network Modernization

Deutsche Bahn (DB) has signed a €6.3 billion contract, distributed among four suppliers, for the modernization of its rail network. This long-term contract, a first of its kind, aims to deploy new digital interlocking systems and the ETCS (European Train Control System), as well as integrated control and command systems. Mermec Deutschland, a subsidiary of Compagnie des Signaux, is the second-ranked recipient in this agreement.

A New Global Contract Model

This contract commits DB to acquire 15,500 digital control units by 2028, with implementation continuing until 2032. The novelty of this contract model lies in its scale and duration. For the first time, DB has opted for a single, large-scale agreement with its industrial partners, rather than numerous smaller contracts. The suppliers are committed to using technical platform solutions with standardized interfaces, thereby ensuring the necessary and reliable resources.

Accelerating the Digitalization of the German Rail Network

This approach aims to significantly accelerate the digitalization of the German rail network, reducing the typical eight-year average timeframe for the commissioning and implementation of signaling technology. The first calls for projects are anticipated for spring 2025, with the full implementation of individual projects expected to continue until 2032.