Israel Advances Autonomous Metro Project with $30 Billion Infrastructure Tender

Israel's National Transport Infrastructure Company (NTA) has launched the pre-qualification process for the second phase of its metro infrastructure project, valued at approximately 30 billion shekels. This follows strong international interest in the first phase, which attracted 20 groups comprising 33 infrastructure companies from Israel and abroad, bidding on contracts worth around 65 billion shekels. The new phase focuses on selecting companies to supply autonomous metro trains, signaling, control, electrical and energy systems, station infrastructure, and operational services for the extensive metro network.

The metro trains will operate fully autonomously using GOA4 technology, the highest level of automation in rail transport, enabling real-time smart control, high operational precision, and advanced safety. The integrated systems will ensure continuous, reliable, and secure network operation. Standards for the project have been coordinated with Israeli emergency authorities, and selected companies will collaborate with Israeli cybersecurity and information security firms.

The metro network in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area will include three lines spanning about 150 kilometers with 109 underground stations, connecting 24 local authorities. It is expected to handle over 600 million trips annually, and combined with the light rail system, more than 800 million trips per year. Transport Minister Miri Regev highlighted the project's significance in connecting Israel and strengthening its global standing in transportation infrastructure. NTA Chairman Yudfat Afek-Erazi emphasized the metro as a transformative infrastructure project that will boost urban development, employment, and economic productivity.

NTA CEO Itamar Ben Meir noted the project's complexity and the search for top international partners to deliver a state-of-the-art, reliable, and safe metro system that will serve future generations. The project represents a major step toward realizing one of the most advanced transportation systems worldwide.