Overview
With the awarding of a long-term supply contract for the provision and maintenance of a Computer Based Interlocking (CBI) system by Iarnród Éireann, Irish Rail, Ireland has confirmed a historic rail infrastructure contract award. Siemens Mobility Ltd. has won the contract, which is estimated to be worth €263.26 million and will last for about 25 years. This represents a significant investment in the future-readiness, safety, and dependability of Ireland's rail signalling network. The agreement was signed on November 4, 2025, and it was soon published.
Details of the Contract
The long-term supply, implementation, and lifecycle support of a computer-based interlocking system- a crucial safety element of contemporary railway signalling- are covered by the awarded contract (Reference 7863). The agreement, which is categorised as a supplies contract, supports safe train movements and route control throughout the Irish rail network.
Irish Rail will install CBI cabinets with the interlocking logic needed to process dispatcher route-setting commands and maintain trackside control with the necessary safety integrity as part of the scope. Additionally, the contract includes Lineside Electronic Units (LEUs) when necessary, along with Object Controllers (OCs) to monitor and manage trackside assets like points and signals. Over the course of the system's entire lifecycle, the arrangement is intended to support upgrades, maintenance, and operational continuity.
Contract Value Estimate: €263,255,617
Duration of Contract: About 25 years
Type of Contract: Supplies
Location of the Project: Ireland
Date of Contract: November 4, 2025
Organisations Involved
Irish Rail, with its headquarters located at Connolly Station in Dublin, is the procuring authority. Ireland's national rail system and services are run and maintained by Irish Rail.
Based in Wiltshire, UK, Siemens Mobility Ltd. is a successful supplier and a member of the global Siemens Mobility group, which is a top supplier of digital rail, control, and rail signalling technologies. The Contract Award Notice did not include information about other bidders.
Industry and Strategic Importance
An important investment in rail safety and network modernisation is represented by this government transport contract award. Higher reliability, simpler scalability, and better maintainability are made possible by computer-based interlocking systems, which replace outdated relay technologies with software-driven, fail-safe logic.
A strategic lifecycle partnership approach is indicated by the 25-year contract term, which guarantees long-term system support, uniform technical standards, and alignment with upcoming rail capacity and digitalisation initiatives. The project helps Ireland achieve its broader transport goals, such as increased demand for passengers and goods, network resilience, and service expansion.
An Overview of the Successful Provider
With a wealth of experience providing interlocking, train control, and automation projects for national rail operators throughout Europe and beyond, Siemens Mobility is a world leader in rail signalling and control systems. Digital interlockings, ETCS solutions, and long-term support frameworks for safety-critical rail infrastructure are all part of its portfolio.
Overview of Technology and Finances
In order to ensure safe route setting and real-time control of trackside equipment, the contract covers the design-approved supply of CBI cabinets, object controllers, lineside electronic units, and related support services. The system's long operational life, the national scope of deployment, and the strict safety and compliance requirements inherent in railway signalling are all reflected in the estimated value of €263.26 million.
In conclusion
An important milestone in Ireland's rail signalling modernisation programme has been reached with the award of the computer-based interlocking system contract to Siemens Mobility. The contract is anticipated to improve safety, operational effectiveness, and future-proof signalling capability throughout the Irish rail network over the course of its 25-year duration. In Ireland's rail and transport infrastructure sector, the award also emphasises the size and strategic significance of awarded tenders.
#IrelandRailContracts #IrishRail #IarnrodEireann #RailSignalling #ComputerBasedInterlocking #SiemensMobility #RailInfrastructureIreland #TransportProcurement #GovernmentContractsIreland #ContractAward #TenderResults #AwardedTenders
