Nokia & ST Engineering Power Bangkok Metro Network

Nokia and ST Engineering have partnered with First One Systems to deliver a state-of-the-art IP/MPLS-based mission-critical communications network for the Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM). The deployment will power the new Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Orange Line, a 35.9 km route connecting the eastern and western sides of Bangkok, improving reliability, safety and operational efficiency for the city’s expanding transport infrastructure.

Building a smarter, safer metro network

Under the collaboration, Nokia’s Internet Protocol/Multi-Protocol Label Switching (IP/MPLS) solution will form the backbone of BEM’s communications network, enabling faster, more reliable and secure railway operations.

The system will support both vital and non-vital applications, including CCTV surveillance, radio communications, passenger information systems, public announcements and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA).

The Backbone Transmission Network (BTN) will ensure low latency, high capacity and robust resilience, addressing the stringent operational demands of modern railway systems.

The project, scheduled for completion by 2030, represents a significant step forward in Bangkok’s ambition to deliver world-class public transport through digital transformation.

Driving operational excellence through IP/MPLS

As urban rail networks become increasingly digital, operators require infrastructure that can securely and efficiently manage large data volumes.

Nokia’s IP/MPLS solution will help BEM streamline operations, enhance security and improve network visibility, ensuring reliable communications for passengers and operational staff.

The solution includes Nokia’s 7250 Interconnect Router and 7210 Service Access System, integrated with the Nokia Network Services Platform to provide centralised management, automation and real-time monitoring.

Nokia will supply professional services, ensuring seamless deployment and long-term operational stability.

Two Backbone Transmission Networks, a 10G and a 40G BTN, will be deployed to handle voice, data and video transmission between the Orange Line’s stations and the Operations Control Centre (OCC).

The dual configuration will deliver redundancy and scalability, essential for mission-critical environments such as metro systems.

Collaboration and local expertise

The project demonstrates the power of collaboration between global and local partners.

First One Systems, a Thai systems integrator, brings local experience and on-the-ground insight to ensure the solution meets the needs of Bangkok’s infrastructure.

“We are honoured to be part of this landmark project alongside Nokia and ST Engineering, contributing our local expertise and strong integration capabilities to support BEM’s vision for safer and smarter rail transport in Bangkok,” says Terdsak Kijjatikankun, Chief Executive Officer, First One Systems.

“Our deep understanding of the local landscape, combined with Nokia’s proven technology and ST Engineering’s system integration excellence, ensures that this mission-critical communication system will meet the highest international standards,” he adds.

Engineering excellence for railway modernisation

Stuart Hendry, Vice President, Enterprise Sales, Network Infrastructure, Asia Pacific, Nokia, highlights the importance of collaboration in delivering complex infrastructure projects.

“Complex and large-scale railway projects require not just deep technical expertise but also seamless collaboration across partners,” Stuart says.

“Together with ST Engineering and First One Systems, we demonstrated engineering excellence and solution leadership, giving BEM the confidence to move forward with our solution for this prestigious initiative.

“Our strong track record and learnings from delivering similar railway projects globally enable us to anticipate challenges and deliver a world-class solution,” he adds.

As railway operators worldwide adopt digital technologies to enhance safety and performance, Bangkok’s Orange Line serves as a showcase for how integrated IP-based communication systems can transform rail operations.

Nokia’s mission-critical network will simplify maintenance, strengthen cyber resilience, and optimise bandwidth allocation, enabling consistent service quality across the line.

Future-proofing Bangkok’s transport infrastructure

The Orange Line’s communications upgrade demonstrates how intelligent network design can directly support transport efficiency, safety, and passenger experience.

With Nokia’s IP/MPLS backbone, BEM will benefit from a future-ready, scalable platform that supports both existing operational needs and future innovation, such as predictive maintenance and data analytics.

By uniting advanced IP/MPLS technology, system integration expertise and local operational insight, Nokia, ST Engineering, and First One Systems are setting a benchmark for next-generation metro communications.

The project not only enhances Bangkok’s transport infrastructure but illustrates the role of telecommunications innovation in building safer, smarter and more connected cities.