Russia is moving toward a future where rail travel could operate with a high degree of automation. In a recent plenary session titled “Future transport system in the interests of passengers,” held during the Russia exhibition forum at VDNKh, the head of the national rail holding outlined ambitious plans for the rollout of unmanned trains in 2026. The announcement signals a significant step in modernizing the national rail network, with technology and safety systems integrated to enable a fully autonomous service on components of the fleet once the necessary infrastructure is in place.
During the same event, it was noted that a partially unmanned train at level 3 automation would begin trial operations at MCC this summer. This move represents a staged approach, where automation is gradually introduced to the current system while ensuring that safety, reliability, and passenger comfort are maintained throughout the transition. The phased implementation is intended to build confidence among passengers and operators alike as the technology matures.
Believing that a completely unmanned operation is feasible, the leadership pointed to the introduction of a markedly redesigned electric train known as the Finist. According to Belozerov, the new train has been equipped with the required automation and control interfaces that have already been developed in the country. This alignment of rolling stock with smart control systems is presented as the enabler for a fully autonomous service by 2026, provided that testing, validation, and regulatory approvals proceed without delay.
Industry observers in Russia have also discussed a broader forecast for automation in transport. Jan Heitzer, a leading figure with the National Automobile Association, suggested a timeline that envisions unmanned modes appearing across the Russian transportation network by about 2033. Heitzer projected a shift in the mix of vehicles, including as much as 30 percent of buses moving into unmanned operation. The rationale behind this projection centers on alleviating driver shortages and expanding service coverage, particularly in congested urban corridors and on high-demand routes where consistent scheduling is a priority.
Recent developments within the Moscow metro point to a parallel push toward automation. Tests have begun on integrating an LTE network to support the launch of unmanned trains, signaling the infrastructure layer required to sustain autonomous movement. The deployment of reliable communications networks in the metro environment is considered essential for safe track-to-train coordination, real-time monitoring, and remote oversight in a dense urban setting. These steps reflect a broader strategy to modernize public transit with automation while maintaining rigorous safety standards and public accountability.
Across the transportation sector, the push for unmanned services is framed as a long-term investment in efficiency, safety, and resilience. Proponents emphasize that automation can help smooth out peak-period demand, optimize energy use, and reduce operational costs over time. At the same time, the transition involves careful attention to the human factors of automation, ongoing training for staff, robust cybersecurity measures, and transparent communication with riders about what automation means for their daily journeys. The goal is to deliver reliable, punctual service while gradually expanding the scope of autonomous operations as technology, laws, and public confidence align.