Belgium: The Spanish manufacturer has signed a contract with national operator SNCB to supply 180 trains worth €1.7 bln. Over the 12-year term of the agreement, an option will be available for a further 380 units, bringing the potential total to 560 trains, making it the largest rolling stock order in Belgian railway history.
The first trains are scheduled to enter service in 2030. The order covers partially double-deck three- and four-car AM30 EMUs, as well as single-deck battery-electric MR30 trains. The new fleet will be based on CAF’s Civity platform, similar to trains currently being supplied to Dutch operator NS (pictured).
CAF was initially named preferred bidder in March 2025, but the decision was challenged by Alstom and Siemens Mobility, both participants in the tender. Although CAF’s offer was not the cheapest, it achieved the highest overall score. Alstom had repeatedly warned that losing the contract could force it to close its Belgian production sites.
Despite the pressure, SNCB confirmed its intention in July to proceed with CAF. The Spanish company, which does not have a manufacturing base in Belgium, was encouraged to consider recruiting local workers and sourcing components from Belgian suppliers. In addition, due to concerns arising from the CAF’ conducting business in Palestine, SNCB requested assurances that the manufacturer’s operations comply with international law and human rights standards.
Ultimately, appeals from Alstom and Siemens were unsuccessful. Earlier in December 2025, Alstom announced plans to cut 150 jobs at its Bruges plant from mid-2026.
