Hitachi Rail to Install ETCS Signalling on Ankara-Istanbul Line

Hitachi Rail will install new signalling systems at Tunnel 26 (T26) and Bilecik depot on Türkiye’s Ankara-Istanbul railway line. This will support the separation of high-speed, conventional passenger and freight services.

The contract has been signed by Hitachi Rail Spain and Hitachi Rail Türkiye with Türkiye’s state railway infrastructure operator, TCDD. The work follows the completion of civil engineering works at the two locations.

The signalling upgrades are expected to reduce journey times through the T26 section from 20 minutes to nine minutes. They will also support increased network capacity and availability.

The project covers the development, supply, installation and commissioning of signalling systems at T26 and Bilecik depot. The work includes modifications to existing interlockings and the Traffic Control Centre, alongside the installation of trackside equipment, new turnouts and signals. The existing telecommunications equipment will also be expanded.

Both locations will be equipped with the European Train Control System (ETCS) Levels 1 and 2. ETCS is a European train protection and control system designed to support safe train operations and interoperability between railway networks.

The upgrades are intended to help TCDD manage different types of rail traffic in the area. Separating high-speed services from conventional passenger and freight trains can reduce conflicts between services and improve the use of available railway capacity.

The Ankara-Istanbul line is a key part of Türkiye’s intercity rail network, connecting the country’s capital with Istanbul, its largest city. Improvements to signalling and train control can help reduce journey times and support more efficient operations as demand for rail services grows.