Belgian rail network fully modernized with advanced ETCS Level 2 signalling
A major milestone in European rail modernization has been reached as Belgium completes its nationwide upgrade to the European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2, enhancing safety, efficiency, and cross-border interoperability. The ambitious project, launched in 2015, has upgraded 2,274 kilometers of track with advanced digital signalling and interlocking systems, positioning Belgium as a leader in rail digital transformation.
The initiative, carried out by the Siemens Mobility and Equans consortium in partnership with the Belgian railway infrastructure manager Infrabel, prioritized key national and European transport corridors. Siemens Mobility led the ETCS Level 2 implementation and interlocking modernization, while Equans handled on-site installation, including civil engineering, electrical works, hardware deployment, cabling, and comprehensive documentation.
Before the upgrade, Belgium’s rail network relied on legacy systems that limited operational efficiency and cross-border compatibility. The project, part of Belgium’s ETCS Masterplan, aimed to fully equip all lines with ETCS technology by December 2025, ahead of the EU’s deadline, and ensures seamless digital communication for train operations across the country.
The upgrade covers all major Belgian cities, including Bruges, Ghent, Hasselt, Arlon, Verviers, and Mons, and integrates 46 interlockings, 37 Radio Block Centers, over 19,000 balises, and roughly 4,536 signals. Siemens’ Trainguard 200 RBC and Simis W interlocking technology, combined with GSM-R communication, optimize train movements, increase capacity, and improve network efficiency, meeting the demands of modern rail transport.
Michael Peter, CEO of Siemens Mobility, said:
“Belgium is the first country to implement ETCS across a highly complex network under rolling conditions with almost no closures – setting the example Europe must follow. The on-time completion and commissioning of this project, exactly ten years after its start, reflects the strength of our partnership with Infrabel and the consortium’s unwavering commitment. With much of Belgium’s rail network now running on ETCS Level 2, our proven signaling technology delivers the highest safety standards and a more efficient, future-ready rail system for the entire country.”
Mark Dirckx, CEO of Equans Belux, added:
"With the nationwide installation of the European train control system ETCS and the achievement of the ETCS Masterplan, we have made an important contribution to safer, more efficient and future-proof rail transport in Belgium. Thanks to a partnership with Siemens Mobility, we realized a technically and logistically complex project of impressive scale: extensive rail lines, thousands of track equipment, and a robust digital infrastructure. This project strongly supports the modal shift and is an investment in technology, reliability and sustainability for the future of Belgian rail.”
Image: Siemens