Swiss rail giant eyes major role in Baku underground network expansion

The capital's underground metro operator is taking significant steps to reduce its long-standing dependence on a single supplier, Russia’s Metrowagonmash, which has provided trains to the city for decades, dating back to the Soviet Union. In a major move toward diversifying suppliers, Baku Metro is now exploring a partnership with one of the most established railway manufacturers worldwide, Stadler Rail. The expansion plans for the Green and Red lines, including the opening of 10 new stations, necessitate a significant increase in the metro’s rolling stock.

During a recent meeting, Vusal Aslanov, Chairman of Baku Metro, welcomed a Swiss delegation led by Peter Spuhler, the Chairman of the renowned Stadler Rail Group this week, as reported by local media outlets.

According to Baku Metro’s PR representative Bakhtiyar Mammadov, the meeting focused on tasks outlined in the State Program for Metro Development for 2025–2030, including the acquisition of up to 300 new carriages with minimal operating costs. It was emphasized that these projects would be implemented with the support of international financial institutions.

The discussions also highlighted the potential benefits of modern signalling systems, such as Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC), for improving metro operations. Baku Metro plans to launch a tender for such a system at the end of this year, with implementation running from 2028 to 2030.

Peter Spuhler shared examples of Stadler’s projects worldwide and expressed his willingness to provide expertise in new technologies to Baku Metro.

Financial backing for the ambitious modernization program has been confirmed by the European Investment Bank (EIB), which has pledged to fund up to 50% of the project’s cost. Overall, the expansion and upgrade of Baku Metro are estimated to require up to €3 billion.

With these efforts, Baku Metro aims not only to modernize and expand the network but also to reduce reliance on a single manufacturer, ensuring a more flexible and sustainable supply of rolling stock for the future.

The Stadler Rail is a Swiss manufacturer of trains and tram vehicles, boasting an astonishing revenue level of approx. $4 billion worldwide. It operates over 50 subsidiaries across 23 countries worldwide.

By Nazrin Sadigova