Standardisation and Evolution of Next Generation Railway Mobile Communication Systems in China

At present, the industrial chain of second-generation mobile communication systems in China is in a state of atrophy. Hence, application-oriented research of next generation railway mobile communication systems (NGRMSs) is of great significance to the development of railway mobile communication systems in China. The urgency of developing NGRMSs in China is presented. The state-of-the-art popular mobile communication systems were reviewed. The adaptability of fourth generation (4G) and fifth generation (5G) communication systems for railway applications were analysed taking the requirements of future railway systems in China into consideration. Based on the analyses, the following developments were proposed. A practical and dedicated spectrum should be applied for NGRMS based on the trial line verification results. Third generation partnership project (3GPP), long-term evolution (LTE), and 3GPP group communication schemes should be used in NGRMSs for realising trunking communications in railway intervals. Furthermore, multiple wireless communication standards, including 5G communication systems, should be made functional in railway yards and terminals. Technological and equipment research should be carried out with field trial at high-speed line. Technical standards for NGRMSs should be established. Finally, research should be performed on the applications of 5G and other new technologies in railway engineering.