The Vietnamese Ministry of Construction is fully promoting the development of new technologies, such as a dedicated 5G network and a computer-based signaling control system, to ensure the safe operation of high-speed and urban railways. In September, two research and development projects proposed respectively by Viettel, a military-operated telecommunications group, and VNPT, the state-owned Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group, were finally approved.

These projects are expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing Vietnam's railway technology self-reliance and strengthening the stability of communication and signaling systems across both high-speed and urban railways.

Viettel's "5G Rail" Project for High-Speed Railways

The first project is the development of a dedicated 5G network for high-speed railways, led by Viettel. This system includes a core network and base stations designed to support railway communications. The network will be integrated with other railway services and application systems to establish an integrated communication and signaling system.

The project must reach Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8), which means the system must be fully developed, tested, and certified. Key deliverables include one set of 5G core network software systems and eight base stations.

The network must comply with international railway communication standards and support high-speed traveling environments of up to 350 kilometers per hour. In addition, it must interface with both portable 5G devices and equipment installed on trains, meeting requirements for stable data transmission, fast service connection, and low latency.

VNPT's Computer-Based Interlocking (CBI) Project for Urban Railways

The second project is the development of a Computer-Based Interlocking (CBI) system for train operation control at urban railway stations, proposed by VNPT. This system manages signals, track switches, and train routes, preventing route overlaps that could lead to collisions.

The project aims to develop two systems for two stations equipped with three tracks. Along with software, development tools, and laboratory facilities, physical and 3D models for technical design will also be established.

The system must support at least 24 train operation scenarios and meet strict requirements for safety, reliability, and maintainability. Furthermore, it must be verified in laboratories, simulation environments, and actual operating conditions. The system functions must meet Safety Integrity Level 4 (SIL 4), the highest safety rating, and the completed system must reach Technology Readiness Level 8 to undergo independent evaluation and certification.

A Strategic Leap for Vietnam's Railway Infrastructure

Vietnam's move to modernize its railway communication and signaling aligns with large-scale high-speed railway construction projects that will serve as the driver for national economic growth in the coming decades. Vietnam is pushing for the construction of the North-South High-Speed Railway as a national core task and is continuously expanding urban railway networks in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

In the global railway industry, seamless ultra-fast communication during high-speed travel and uninterrupted signal control are essential elements to prevent major accidents and maximize operational efficiency. Vietnam's attempt to lower its reliance on foreign technology and secure 5G rail and advanced interlocking devices with its own technological prowess will serve as an opportunity to establish an independent foothold in the Southeast Asian railway technology market. This R&D project, which pools the capabilities of domestic tech companies such as Viettel and VNPT, is expected to be a crucial turning point that accelerates the digital transformation of Vietnam's transportation infrastructure.

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