ScotRail is introducing satellite Wi-Fi technology to six of its trains supported by satellites from Starlink via a partnership with Clarus Networks.

Bathgate-based Clarus Networks sells access to Starlink satellite connections, providing trains operating in the Scottish Highlands with improved Wi-Fi over a six-month trial.

ScotRail has worked with Clarus Networks to design a new system which allows the trains operating in Scotland’s more rural and remote regions to connect with a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network operated by Starlink.

“This project marks a major step forward in closing the digital divide for rural rail routes. By harnessing the power of Low Earth Orbit satellite technology, we’re able to deliver fast, reliable connectivity in some of the most remote parts of the UK rail network,” Mike Butler, Clarus Networks director of rail and innovation, said.

“This approach helps overcome the coverage and performance limitations of traditional mobile networks – a challenge faced by rail operators globally. We’re proud to work with ScotRail and our partners to prove what’s possible and help shape the future of rail communications – improving both operational performance and the experience for passengers.”

The six trains, all class 158, will be in service in the north of Scotland from Inverness to Wick, Thurso, Kyle of Lochalsh, and Aberdeen.

The project aims to address long-standing train connectivity challenges the region faces, and is supported by the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, and the Scottish Futures Trust.

“This trial in the Scottish Highlands builds on our expertise of creating innovative solutions to deliver connectivity in many underserved locations across Scotland,” Neil Rutheford, Scottish Futures Trust head of digital connectivity, said.

“Our work is very much about considering new ways of delivering the telecoms infrastructure and mobile signal that communities and businesses regard as vital and is reflected in other groundbreaking initiatives we are currently trialling with satellites on board Orkney ferries, providing passengers with ultra-fast internet access.”

ScotRail hopes the the promised connectivity improvements via the partnership will bring a range of improvements to its customer experience, including improved Wi-Fi, increased Wi-Fi called capabilities, better GPS tracking of trains, live on-board CCTV access and download, and improved on-train journey information for customers.

Trains will be fitted with stickers and signage to alert customers that they are riding on upgraded train, as well as a new updated on-train Wi-Fi landing page when they connect.

The pilot aligns with the Scottish Government’s efforts to provide better services to rural communities, ultimately encouraging community growth, repopulation and greater resilience in rural areas.

If successful, the trail could lead to the roll-out of the technology across the remaining class 158 trains in the ScotRail fleet, which would cover other rural lines including the West Highlands, Stranraer, Dumfries and the Borders.

It will also help to influence the inclusion of this technology in the procurement of new fleets and new trains.

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“This technology is set to be a boost for Highland commuters and visitors, improving access to digital services – a central theme at today’s Convention of the Highlands and Islands,” business minister Richard Lochhead MSP said.

“It will enable passengers to access services and apps that will make their journeys more enjoyable and more productive.

“As set out in last week’s Programme for Government, the Scottish Government places great emphasis on digital connectivity. It supports Scotland’s economic resilience and helps everyone, regardless of location, to access improved public services and opportunities.”

Scott Prentice, ScotRail Strategy and Planning Director, said: “The launch of this trial is fantastic news for our customers using services in the north of the country, and will have a very positive impact on their journey experience.

“There has been a lot of hard work by our staff and our partner, Clarus Networks, to get to this point, and I am looking forward to seeing how customers interact with the new technology on our trains.

“The project addresses the long-standing challenges we’ve had for train connectivity in the region, and we hope it will lead to a future roll-out of the technology across other rural routes in Scotland.”