MEDWAY began dynamic line testing of the ETCS+STM system on 9 June on the Poceirão–Vendas Novas line in Portugal.
ETCS+STM is being tested as part of Portugal’s transition from the current ATP system, Convel, to the European Train Control System. The STM function allows compatibility between legacy national train protection equipment and ETCS during the migration period.
The tests will follow predefined test batteries and compare ETCS+STM operation with the existing Convel system. MEDWAY said the objective is to maintain the current safety level while supporting the move to interoperable European signalling standards.
The project is being carried out by MEDWAY in consortium with Alpha Trains and Stadler. Hitachi and Critical Software are providing technology support for the testing and validation process.
Convel is currently used on the Portuguese rail network but is being phased out as part of the sector’s signalling modernisation. ETCS deployment is a requirement for wider interoperability with European rail corridors.
