#44014 - FRMCS Programme "Critical Friend" consultancy

Tender description

The Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) represents a critical upgrade from the current legacy Global System for Mobile Communications-Railway (GSM-R) system, transitioning the GB rail network to a future-proof, 5G-enabled communications platform. This migration will strengthen mission-critical voice and data capabilities whilst supporting existing railway systems. As part of the wider digital transformation of the railway, FRMCS aligns with the direction set out in the Rail Technical Strategy, supporting improved interoperability, safety, and operational efficiency across rail networks in the UK and across Europe. The FRMCS rollout in the UK led by Network Rail is comprised of four core technical components: • Train retrofit • Mast deployment • Fibre installation • Building the FRMCS core network, including mission critical capabilities (MCX) Alongside the technical deployment, significant business change is required to manage the transition to a hybrid, and eventually a fully operational, FRMCS system. More specifically, change relating to system transition, operational readiness, and development of capabilities to operate and maintain a 5G-based railway system. Network Rail is looking for support to act in an independent advisory capacity as an FRMCS ‘Client Friend’. The FRMCS Client Friend role will be central to the successful implementation of Network Rail’s FRMCS programme, supporting governance (including PA23, ETSI, NR PACE), programme oversight, and organisational readiness during the pre-delivery phase of the FRMCS upgrade. The key objective of the FRMCS Client Friend programme is to provide advisory services, centred around technical & commercial assurance, business case lifecycle delivery and programme management, achieving better value for money and improved efficiencies for Network Rail. Advisory areas are shown in Figure 1.