SJ is making a major investment in satellite connections on board its trains. The SJ 3000 trains will be the first to be equipped, with installation beginning in 2026. This investment means that travellers will have access to a fast and stable internet connection that is not dependent on mobile coverage along the tracks.
Following thorough tests on a train during the autumn, SJ has decided to start rolling out satellite connectivity on board the entire SJ 3000 fleet.
– Our pilot tests show that satellite technology solves the biggest challenges with so-called blind spots, i.e. areas with poor or no mobile coverage. This applies particularly to the Stockholm–Oslo route. The results are clear: travellers get a fast and stable connection where mobile coverage has previously been a stumbling block, says Sofie Struwe, Director of Commercial Traffic at SJ.
The rollout of trains with satellite connectivity will take place in stages starting this summer. The aim is for the entire SJ 3000 fleet to be equipped during 2027.
Unique venture
SJ's investment in satellite connectivity is largely unique in its scope.
– There are a number of pilot projects underway around the world, but as far as we know, SJ will be the first to have a fleet of passenger trains on an electrified railway with this type of equipment, says Johan Sagnert, Head of Product and Concept at SJ.
He continues:
– In total, there are 20 SJ 3000 trains, which today primarily run between Gothenburg and Malmö, Stockholm and Sundsvall, and Stockholm and Oslo.
Collaboration for better coverage
SJ's work on improving onboard connectivity doesn't stop with the satellite initiative. Several mobile operators, in close collaboration with SJ, have begun work to close coverage gaps along the Southern and Western main lines. In practice, this means that the operators are expanding the 5G network along the tracks, while SJ has installed radiotransparent windows on board all trains operating on the route.
"We want our customers to feel that the train is the obvious choice when they want to travel sustainably, comfortably, and productively. With both mobile network expansion and satellite technology behind us, we are showing that SJ is ready to lead the development of future travel," says Sofie Struwe.
According to the press release.
