Alcatel on Track in Spain

PARIS -- Alcatel (Paris: CGEP.PA and NYSE: ALA) today announced that it has been awarded three contracts totaling over Euro 180 million to deploy the European standard ETCS (European Train Control System) for the three new sections of the Spanish high speed lines, Lerida-Barcelona, Segovia-Valladolid and Madrid-Toledo. Alcatel will also equip the Lerida-Barcelona and Segovia-Valladolid sections with a fixed communications network.

The three contracts were awarded by GIF (Gestor de Infraestructuras Ferroviarias) to a multi-company consortium, which is responsible for the projects, including design, build and maintenance through 2006. The overall value of these contracts awarded to the consortium is Euro 625 million.

Alcatel will supply its interoperable Alcatel "6481 AlTrac/ETCS Level 2" and "6413 AlTrac/ETCS Level1" solutions, which transmits train movement authorities and other specific information via GSM-R radio. Alcatel will also provide the electrical power supply system for the three sections including the detection system (ie. objects on tracks) electronic axle counter systems for tunnels and viaducts as well as maintenance services for all equipment supplied. In addition, Alcatel will provide technical buildings equipped with access control, fire detection and CCTV systems for all three lines.

For the Lerida-Barcelona extension and the new Segovia-Valladolid section, Alcatel will also be in charge of the design, build and installation of the state of the art multi-services fixed communication network, which will allow full interoperability with the existing network. It is designed to carry and distribute voice, data, and video services to and from all sites, thus establishing reliable communication links.

"Today, rail operators require integration and interoperability to ensure smooth continuous operations. This can be achieved by using modern signaling and communication resources. Alcatel is proud to apply its innovative solutions to the completion of this important project" added Anastasio Gallego del Monte, head of Alcatel's Transport Automation activities in Spain.

Alcatel SA