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• Developed in partnership with SNCF Réseau, this première marks a key milestone in the modernisation and digitalisation of the French rail network
• Deployed in a demanding operational environment, the ARGOS pilot system enables centralised supervision of installations and simplified maintenance, contributing to the reliability of railway services.
Alstom, global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has successfully commissioned the new-generation ARGOS computerised interlocking system at the Montbard site, near Dijon (France). This first deployment, carried out as part of the innovation partnership with SNCF Réseau (sncf-reseau.com), represents a major evolution in signalling systems towards more digital, integrated and industrially scalable solutions, designed to enhance the performance of the French rail network. This digitalisation is essential for the implementation of the ERTMS-based speed control system, which Alstom is also deploying on the high-speed line between Paris and Lyon to increase its capacity.
The signalling installations at Montbard are situated on the nearly 30-kilometre railway line running from Nuit-sous-Ravières to Les Laumes station. This challenging section has been selected as a ‘pilot site’ to test, under real-world conditions, the performance and robustness of the ARGOS solution prior to its large-scale deployment. This commissioning marks the culmination of nearly five years of joint efforts between the Alstom and SNCF Réseau teams.
“Alstom is proud to be supporting SNCF Réseau in this innovative partnership aimed at modernising the French railway network. The commissioning of the ARGOS interlocking system in Montbard illustrates our long-term commitment to a digitalised, interconnected and high-performance rail network serving local communities and passengers. Together, we are shaping the future of rail operations,” said Frédéric Wiscart, President of Alstom France, Belgium & Luxembourg.
Major innovations for computerised interlocking systems
Launched in 2018 by SNCF Réseau, ARGOS is a partnership aimed at designing the third generation of computerised interlocking systems. ARGOS ensures real-time communication between ground-based signalling installations and the Centralised Network Control Centres (CNCR). It aims to improve operational reliability and the performance of maintenance activities and is paving the way for the deployment of ERTMS1.
Alstom is supporting SNCF Réseau in achieving ambitious technical and economic objectives for the new-generation interlocking systems:
• reduction in total cost of ownership;
• digital continuity of systems;
• faster deployment and modification times;
• high levels of reliability, availability and safety;
• enhanced maintainability;
• guarantees of operational readiness.
In this context, Alstom brings its technological expertise with its Onvia Lock solution, at the heart of its digital signalling offering. This solution enables a direct interface with trackside equipment (point machines, signals) via smart object controllers. It eliminates the need for intermediate relays, thereby reducing ground-level infrastructure, cabling volumes and installation and maintenance costs. Modular and scalable, the Onvia Lock solution also facilitates the adaptation of the network to future changes in traffic, whilst incorporating enhanced cybersecurity requirements from the design stage.
A major industrial and field-based mobilisation within Alstom’s teams
Alstom has implemented a fully integrated approach, covering the entire value chain, from solution development through to on-site deployment.
The ARGOS innovation partnership has mobilised nearly 400 experts at Alstom French sites:
• in Saint-Ouen, Europe’s largest railway engineering centre;
• in Villeurbanne, a centre of excellence for digital and railway electronics;
• as well as at the Mignières workshop, which specialises in pre-wiring and preparing ARGOS shelters.
With the commissioning of the ARGOS substation in Montbard, Alstom is strengthening its position as a major player in mainline railway signalling in France. A pioneer in the development of new functions and standards, Alstom offers digital solutions with high levels of safety and security. With over 3,500 employees, Alstom is France’s leading employer in the field of digital mobility.
ALSTOM™ and Onvia Lock™ are registered trademarks of the Alstom Group.
1. European Rail Traffic Management System
About Alstom
Alstom (alstom.com) commits to contribute to a low carbon future by developing and promoting innovative and sustainable transportation solutions that people enjoy riding. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, Alstom offers its diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. With its presence in 63 countries and a talent base of over 86,000 people from 184 nationalities, the company focuses its design, innovation, and project management skills to where mobility solutions are needed most. Listed in France, Alstom generated sales of €18.5 billion for the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2025.
Media contact: Fabienne BOCCARD
T: +33(0)6 80 59 80 63 - E: fabienne.boccard[.]alstomgroup.com.
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philippe.molitor[.]alstomgroup.com 
