Tfl Renews Multi-Services Communications Network

The MSN serves as the underlying infrastructure that supports Connect, Thales’ industry leading system responsible for the critical communications ecosystem that underpins the London Underground.

Transport for London (TfL) announced the renewal of the Multi-Services Network (MSN) technology, which will keep the system up to date and operating at peak performance. This initiative is a crucial part of the Connect communication ecosystem, originally installed by Thales.

This renewal will ensure that TfL’s multi-services network (MSN) operates at peak performance, minimising functional risks, journey disruptions and costs for TfL. 

The MSN serves as the underlying infrastructure that supports Connect, Thales’ industry leading system responsible for the critical communications ecosystem that underpins the London Underground. This includes radio, transmission and operational CCTV technology used by TfL staff to maintain smooth operations, making the MSN vital to efficiency on the rail network and ensuring a safer and smoother passenger experience.

Legacy systems can slowly become unreliable and could disrupt services, leading to delays and an overall negative impact on passenger journeys. Ensuring a data-backed, integrated and timely update – such as this one spearheaded by Thales and Nokia – proactively addresses these concerns, without hampering passenger mobility.

Nokia’s mission-critical IP/MPLS network solution is the backbone and complements this system by providing secure, reliable, and scalable connectivity, ensuring that the foundation for this communications ecosystem is robust and sustainable.

Rebecca Bissell, Director of Information Technology for TfL, stated,

“We are delighted to be working with Thales and Nokia on this renewal of our multi-services network, which supports a number of key systems such as the Connect radio system and access to CCTV across the network. Delivering this comprehensive communications renewal will support the operational demands of our extensive Tube and rail network and ensure it operates at peak performance while reducing costs, journey disruptions, and ultimately providing the best service possible to our customers.”

The Connect system, providing essential radio and CCTV technology for the network, was installed by Thales between 1999 and 2019 under a twenty-year Private Finance Initiative contract. After this period, the infrastructure became the property of TfL, which has continued to contract Thales for ongoing maintenance.

In 2021, Thales completed a significant upgrade to the system, installing new technology to replace components that had been in use for two decades. The upcoming MSN renewal is anticipated to play a similar role in enhancing system performance.

Andy Bell, Vice President of Thales Transport in the UK, commented,

“We’re delighted to partner with TfL and Nokia on this critical project. Renewing the multi-services network, in a way that minimises disruptions to services, is essential for maintaining a safe, reliable and efficient underground, without putting the burden on passengers. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to continuous innovation in rail and prioritising passenger mobility and operational excellence.”

The renewal project is scheduled to take place between 2025 and 2027, with work being carried out during the brief overnight periods when the underground network is closed to passengers.