A standardised train control system for Europe.

Given the process of ongoing economic and political consolidation, the trade borders within Europe are quickly disappearing. To maintain or improve their competitiveness, European railways are having to open up their national networks.

This, however, presupposes a degree of technological and operational standardisation. With its ERTMS project the European Union created a new joint platform for the railways, the supervisory authorities and the signalling industry. ERTMS creates the technological basis for rolling stock (“train borne”) equipment from various manufacturers to communicate with the equipment installed on the route network of various countries. Thus guaranteeing control of rail operations at even higher speeds. This is one of the prerequisites for cross-border operation.