BAI to build 5G radio network for Sydney Metro West

BAI Communications has won a contract to deliver radio communications systems for Sydney Metro West, the new underground rail line planned between Parramatta and Sydney's central business district.

The work forms part of the broader Trains, Systems, Maintenance and Operations package for the project. Metro Trains West, the consortium holding that package, has named BAI as a delivery partner for communications infrastructure across the new metro corridor.

Metro Trains West is a joint venture between MTR Corporation (Australia) and CRRC (Hong Kong). The communications scope includes operational systems for trains and signalling, connectivity for emergency services, and mobile coverage for passengers in stations and tunnels.

Network scope

BAI will design, deliver and integrate a mission-critical train communication system based on a private 5G network. The system will carry operational radio services used by rail staff and connect to train communications and rail signalling functions on the line.

The contract also includes public safety network connectivity along the full route, providing coverage for New South Wales emergency services throughout stations, tunnels and other parts of the corridor.

It also covers public mobile connectivity for passengers, with planned 4G and 5G coverage for Telstra, Optus and TPG customers across all stations and tunnels.

BAI will also manage design, integration and lifecycle activities, including testing, commissioning and operational readiness.

5G rail system

The contract is described as Australia's first deployment contract for a 5GMCX-based radio communication system built for rail use. In rail environments, communications systems sit alongside signalling and operational controls, carrying voice and data services for staff working in tunnels and stations.

BAI says the technology provides a pathway to the Future Railway Mobile Communications System (FRMCS), a global standard the rail sector expects to adopt over the coming decade as it replaces GSM-R, a long-standing radio system used on many networks.

Communications architecture has drawn increasing focus as metro networks shift to higher service frequency and greater automation. Sydney Metro West is planned as a driverless line, with extensive tunnelling and underground stations that typically require dedicated in-tunnel radio and mobile infrastructure rather than relying on outdoor mobile networks.

Project build

Sydney Metro West is planned as a 24-kilometre underground route between Parramatta and Hunter Street in the Sydney CBD. It includes new stations at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays, Pyrmont and Hunter Street.

The New South Wales Government has positioned the line as a capacity increase for the corridor between Parramatta and the CBD. The plan includes 16 driverless metro trains, and the state expects the project to shift travel patterns across Greater Sydney by moving trips away from congested rail lines and roads.

Construction sequencing for major metro projects typically separates civil works from systems fit-out. Work on tracks, power, ventilation, and communications is expected to begin in 2026, after tunnelling is complete. That phase is planned to involve about 1,000 workers in tunnels beneath the city.

Experience base

BAI is best known in Australia for operating broadcast transmission networks and delivering public safety communications. It operates television and radio broadcast infrastructure that reaches most of the population and provides managed networks for emergency response, where coverage and resilience requirements are often tighter than in commercial networks.

BAI also points to international rail work delivered before its separation from sister company Boldyn Networks, including communications infrastructure for metro systems in London, New York City and Hong Kong.

Elyssa Rollinson, Chief Commercial Officer at BAI Communications, said: "BAI Communications is proud to be a part of this transformational project that will reshape mobility across Greater Sydney. Our expertise in managing critical, 'always on' communications networks positions us ideally to deliver the robust, future-ready infrastructure required for a world-class metro system of this scale and sophistication. We are delighted to partner with MTW on this significant undertaking."

"The communications systems we deliver will not only provide passengers with seamless mobile connectivity throughout their journey but will also underpin the advanced signalling and control systems that ensure safe, reliable metro operations," Rollinson added. "This project demonstrates BAI's capability to deliver integrated communications solutions that address multiple connectivity needs simultaneously, achieving superior outcomes for government, communities and public safety agencies."

A key requirement is that the communications layer serves both operational users and the travelling public. Anthony Warren, CEO of Metro Trains West, said: "Sydney Metro West requires communications infrastructure that can support both mission-critical rail operations and the connectivity expectations of passengers today, and into the future. BAI Communications brings proven global expertise in delivering exactly these types of complex, integrated solutions. We're pleased to have them as part of the team delivering this transformational project for Greater Sydney."

The line is scheduled to open in 2032, with systems work expected to ramp up after tunnelling is completed and the project moves into installation, integration and testing across stations and tunnels.