CFPs: Network Management Planning and Control and Mobility Management in a Multimodal Environment and Digital Enablers

The focus areas of this opportunity include: Improving strategic and tactical planning of the rail network; Increasing the resilience of a connected ‘real time’ rail network; Integrated rail traffic within door-to-door mobility; Digital Enablers; and the use of Artificial Intelligence to collect and analyse data patterns and support decision-making processes. The action to be funded under this Destination shall address two work streams (WS): WS1 – Network management planning and control & Mobility Management in a multimodal environment and WS2 – Digital Enablers. The expected outcomes include improving strategic and tactical planning of the rail network through innovative functionalities covering strategic and short-term services planning, considering ERTMS and ATO evolution; increasing the resilience of a connected ‘real-time’ rail network capable of interoperable traffic management across Europe; integrating rail traffic within door-to-door mobility with enhanced data exchange and accessibility; and developing a comprehensive digital twin and data federation framework supported by artificial intelligence as part of the digital enabler ecosystem.

The initiative aims to deliver, by 2028, new digital and operational capabilities for the rail sector. These include European cross-border scheduling, decision support for short-term planning, optimization methods for timetabling and energy-efficient rail planning, and integration of traffic management systems with station and yard planning. It will also strengthen real-time operations with cross-border traffic management, cooperative multi-actor planning, disruption management, and automation in decision support. In addition, the project will enable improved passenger experience through integrated intermodal services, digital twins for predictive demand forecasting, and inclusive accessibility features for all passengers.

The digital enabler component introduces a federated data space to ensure interoperability and secure data exchange, along with standardized ontologies based on ERA frameworks. It also emphasizes the development of a digital twin support and execution environment, enabling virtual representation and real-time simulation of railway operations. Artificial intelligence will play a vital role in analysing large data sets, identifying patterns, and supporting operational decision-making. Furthermore, the action integrates cybersecurity measures, aligning with the EU-RAIL System Pillar’s specifications to protect digital assets and ensure safe operations.

The expected impacts include improved EU rail supply industry competitiveness, harmonized evolution of European traffic management systems, enhanced adaptability and sustainability of transport, and a more resilient, connected rail infrastructure. This flagship project will bring together infrastructure managers, railway undertakings, technology providers, and research institutions to deliver Europe’s next-generation rail traffic management architecture.

This call, titled HORIZON-JU-ER-2025-FA1-TT-01, falls under the EU-Rail Joint Undertaking Call for Proposals 2025-02 within Horizon Europe (HORIZON). It is a HORIZON-JU Innovation Action (HORIZON-JU-IA) with a total indicative budget of EUR 22.4 million. The funding rate of the action is 60% of eligible costs to achieve the required leverage effect. Projects will be implemented through a lump sum grant model as defined in Horizon Europe’s simplified cost decision framework. The deadline for submission is 11 February 2026 at 17:00 Brussels time, and the expected project duration is 30 months.

For more information, visit EC.