Technolution wins ProRail tender for Key Management Center (KMC) project
ProRail has selected Technolution to develop and manage the Key Management Center (KMC). The KMC plays a crucial security role in the newly to be introduced European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS).
ERTMS
ERTMS is a European standard for train security and railway traffic management which will replace the current security standards. The system offers many advantages over the current systems in the fields of security and interoperability, as well as of capacity, speed, and reliability. For this reason, the Dutch government decided in May 2019 to roll out ERTMS.
Secure communication and key management
Trains communicate with ERTMS through GSM-R(ailway), an international standard for wireless communication with train systems and applications. Secure communication through GSM-R requires cryptographic security using digital keys. These keys are generated and issued by the railway infrastructure manager and are then charged with ERTMS-related communication devices on trains and along the tracks. Key management will be performed by staff employed by ProRail, the carriers, and the wagon keepers, and they will use the Key Management Center (KMC) application for this.
The agreement between ProRail and Technolution encompasses the following services:
- development and delivery of the KMC:
- training and provision of instruction material for users and managers;
- performing integration tests at ProRail;
- management (maintenance and third-line support) for at most 15 years;
- maintaining a development and testing environment for the KMC;
- regular management and minor maintenance;
- third-line support.
The agreement has a fixed duration of 1 year of development and 5 fixed years of maintenance with 5 options for renewal of up to 2 years. The maximum duration is 16 years.
After a careful selection and tender phase, ProRail chose Technolution on June 4, 2024 as the winner with the most suitable offer.
