Bombardier will install ETCS Level 1 on the new line. The contract includes the supply of lineside signalling, interlockings, level crossing equipment, and CTC.

The line will run from Awash, on the Addis Ababa – Djibouti line, which is also under construction, north to Weldia.

Construction of the 389km single-track standard-gauge electrified line started in 2012 and the project is due to be completed by the end of 2015.