25 years of security partnership: How Deutsche Bahn and the Federal Police are further developing rail transport security
For 25 years now, Deutsche Bahn (DB), the Federal Ministry of the Interior (BMI) and the Federal Police have been working together in a nationwide security partnership that is unique in Germany.
The aim is to continuously improve safety and quality of life at stations and on trains – a goal that is more relevant than ever in view of increasing mobility figures, social changes and new technological possibilities. To mark the anniversary, the partners reaffirmed their cooperation and set the course for the future.
Taking stock after 25 years: expansion, professionalisation, digitalisation
The partnership, which began in 2000, has proven to be a stable cornerstone of the security architecture in rail transport from the perspective of all those involved. At the signing of the new cooperation agreement, State Secretary Hans-Georg Engelke (BMI) particularly emphasised technological progress. The number of cameras at stations has almost doubled since 2012. This has been accompanied by a significant increase in the detection of crimes, which has more than tripled since 2019.
DB also sees technological expansion as a key success factor. For DB Security Chief Dr Patrick Hennies, it is clear that, in addition to a physical presence on site, the modernisation of the security infrastructure and the use of new technologies – such as artificial intelligence – are crucial. The Federal Police, for its part, relies on close cooperation between official hazard prevention and the operational capabilities of the railway. Vice-President Thomas Plank emphasises that the partnership forms the basis for being able to respond reliably to changing security situations.
Rail Security Centre: joint decisions in real time
At the heart of the cooperation is the Rail Security Centre, where DB employees and federal police officers work together around the clock. There, situation reports are compiled, events are assessed and security measures are coordinated. Whether it’s state visits, major events, disruptions to rail operations or busy travel weekends, the centre ensures that decisions are made quickly, in a coordinated manner and in line with the situation.
This real-time cooperation not only enables a more precise assessment of the situation, but also the smooth implementation of operational concepts in rail operations. Teams of experts from both institutions jointly evaluate data and develop new measures based on the latest findings.
Visible presence: patrols in stations and trains
The partnership is particularly visible to travellers through joint patrols by DB security staff and federal police officers. The combination of sovereign powers and DB’s domestic authority allows for a flexible and effective approach. The aim is to convey a sense of security, take preventive action and be able to intervene quickly in the event of an incident.
Modern video technology as a key technology
Video technology plays a central role. By the end of 2024, 143 additional stations across Germany will have been equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Today, cameras at around 1,000 stations transmit images to the Federal Police. The consistent expansion has demonstrably contributed to the investigation of crimes and helps to reveal previously unknown facts. The partners are jointly planning the expansion of further locations in accordance with the Federal Police’s equipment recommendations.
‘Secure Station’ research project: innovation as a protective factor
DB and the Federal Police are testing new technologies in the joint ‘Secure Station’ research project. With scientific support, the project is investigating how dangers can be identified at an early stage – especially in time-critical situations. Among other things, AI-based detection systems and technical solutions for protecting critical infrastructure are being tested.
New technologies: opportunities and risks
Artificial intelligence, drones and networked systems open up new possibilities for further developing security strategies. At the same time, new risks are emerging, particularly from the potential misuse of such technologies. The partners want to tackle these challenges together and invest more in prevention, technical security and protective mechanisms.
Outlook: shared responsibility for the future
The signing of the new agreement is seen as a symbol of continued trust and multi-faceted cooperation. Deutsche Bahn, the Federal Ministry of the Interior and the Federal Police are pursuing the common goal of making rail travel safer in the long term. The partnership is set to develop further in the future and respond flexibly to new challenges.
