Wabtec Secures ₹839 Crore Orders for India’s Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Programme
Contracts Cover Braking Systems, Doors and Gangways
BENGALURU, October 27, 2026: Wabtec Corporation has secured orders worth approximately US$94 million (₹839 crore) from Indian Railways to supply critical onboard systems for the Vande Bharat Sleeper train programme, supporting the modernisation of long-distance rail travel in India.
The contracts cover braking systems, passenger doors and gangway solutions, with the objective of improving train reliability, passenger safety, operational availability and maintenance efficiency. Wabtec will also provide system integration support, testing, commissioning and assistance aimed at ensuring long-term operational performance.
The orders mark a significant business milestone for the US-based rail technology company and strengthen its position in India’s expanding railway modernisation sector.
Focus on Technology and Local Manufacturing
Commenting on the contracts, Pascal Schweitzer, President of Wabtec Transit, said the orders reinforced the company’s commitment to supporting the transformation of Indian Railways.
“These orders further reinforce Wabtec’s commitment to supporting the modernization of Indian Railways,” Schweitzer said.
He attributed the company’s success to its technology, domestic manufacturing capabilities and ability to meet the demanding requirements of large-scale railway projects.
“Our success reflects the strength of our technology, local manufacturing capabilities, and ability to meet the rigorous requirements of large-scale rail programs,” he added.
Schweitzer said Wabtec would focus on delivering the systems according to schedule while supporting the introduction of a new generation of sleeper train services in India.
50 Trainsets to Expand Overnight Rail Travel
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF), a premier manufacturing unit of Indian Railways, will manufacture 50 Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets, extending the next-generation train network to long-distance overnight journeys.
Each trainset will comprise 24 coaches and is designed to enhance passenger comfort, safety and convenience while meeting the growing demand for efficient intercity transportation.
The programme is among India’s significant passenger railway modernisation initiatives, requiring coordination among Indian Railways, ICF, technology suppliers, system integrators and other stakeholders. Seamless manufacturing, system integration, operational readiness and long-term fleet performance will be central to its success.
Strengthening India’s Railway Modernisation
For Wabtec, the contracts reinforce long-term partnerships with railway manufacturers, system integrators and national railway programmes. The company said its solutions would support Indian Railways in reducing maintenance complexity and improving service reliability.
The orders also highlight the growing role of advanced railway technologies and domestic manufacturing capabilities in India’s efforts to develop safer, more reliable and passenger-friendly rail transportation.
