Locomotive ETCS Fitment Framework

Procurement reference

SR42713

Procurement description

Network Rail is introducing digital signalling, which will see traditional lineside signals removed and replaced with European Train Control Systems (ETCS) technology. The implementation will enable continuous, real-time information to the train driver’s cab.

ETCS is an in-cab signalling system that enables trains to run closer together, safely and to travel at their optimal speeds. To implement ETCS, it requires changes to signalling infrastructure and fitment of in-cab technology on locomotives.

NR is intending to procure a framework to enable the design, supply, installation (fitment), test and put back into service of ETCS equipment fitted across a range of existing locomotive classes, including electric, diesel and steam across the Charter & Heritage and Freight sectors.

Network Rail has developed a proposed procurement approach which it now wishes to test with the supply chain to ensure it is both successful in procurement and in operation and therefore we seek the supply chains support in testing this proposed approach that we shall details in our Market Engagement launch and questionnaires thereafter.

Main category

Works

Total value (estimated)

270000000 GBP Excluding VAT

324000000 GBP Including VAT

Contract dates (estimated)

15 May 2028, 00:00AM to 30 December 2043, 23:59PM

NETWORK RAIL INFRASTRUCTURE LIMITED

Is this procurement under a special regime?

Utilities

Is the total value above threshold?

Above threshold

CPV classifications

• 34630000 - Parts of railway or tramway locomotives or rolling stock; railways traffic-control equipment
• 34600000 - Railway and tramway locomotives and rolling stock and associated parts
• 34620000 - Rolling stock
• 34631000 - Parts of locomotives or rolling stock
• 45234115 - Railway signalling works
• 45316200 - Installation of signalling equipment

Sustainability

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SME)

Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)

Contract start date (estimated)

15 May 2028, 00:00AM

Contract end date (estimated)

30 December 2043, 23:59PM

Engagement process description

Network Rail are launching an Early Market Engagement process as part of the development of the procurement approach to the LFF.

Responding to the notice is an excellent opportunity to engage with the programme, share relevant information and provide vital feedback to inform the procurement approach. Should your organisation wish to respond to this notice please follow the instructions below.

1. Supplier Engagement Event

NR intends to hold a virtual online supplier engagement session for registered parties in relation to the procurement of the Locomotive ETCS Fitment Framework (LFF) on the 2nd of October 2025, via Microsoft Teams.

NR sincerely wishes your organisation to attend this event and hear about this very exciting opportunity and the start of changing the UK Rail Industry for the future of ETCS.

This event will have a greater level of detailed information provided on our proposed approaches, and we encourage attendance therefore to help shape the requirements and contracting strategy. Our team will be on hand to ask all questions, and all supply chains are encouraged to attend (large or small) to understand how your organisation can become engaged and involved.

2. Market Sounding Questionnaire

Following the Supplier Engagement Day, Network Rail will invite all participants to provide feedback on key areas of consideration in the development of the strategy and thinking to date, which will be captured via the Market Sounding Questionnaire (MSQ).

The MSQ will be issued to all interested parties by email to their nominated individual that have registered on BRAVO (JAGGER), following the Supplier Engagement Day.

Any clarifications or questions in respect of this market engagement should be directed to:

LFFPreMarketEngagement@networkrail.co.uk

NR shall run a full clarification mailbox throughout this whole market engagement process and where NO Unique Selling Points (USP’s) or Intellectual Property Rights are disclosed then in these cases our responses and the original question may be shared with all potential participants. NR therefore request that should anything be considered a USP and IPR to your organisation that this is marked (CONFIDENTIAL & COMMERCIALLY SENSITIVE) on the clarification or email at the very top of the clarification or email, so that NR can consider ensuring protection of the same.

Further Information:

For further information relating to the scope of this pre-market engagement, including how to register for the Supplier Engagement Event, please review the document titled "PME Locomotive Fitment Briefing Document" via the instructions below.

1. Follow the link

https://networkrail.bravosolution.co.uk/web/login.html

2. From the welcome screen, access the "View Current Opportunities" link and select "Locomotive ETCS Fitment Framework ". (Login is not required).

3. Then follow the instructions in the "Responding to this Market Engagement" section of the attached document "PME Locomotive Fitment Briefing Document”.

Contact Details:

Contact name: Chid Oriaku - Senior Procurement Manager

Email: LFFPreMarketEngagement@networkrail.co.uk

Website: https://www.networkrail.co.uk/running-the-railway/our-routes/east-coast/east-coast-digital-programme/

Due date

12 December 2025, 23:59PM

Has the engagement period already ended?

No

Publication date of tender notice (estimated)

30 July 2026