The new network "will connect Alstom’s operations at 350 locations in 60 countries, including manufacturing plants, offices, depots and data centres.

"It will provide agile and secure access to company applications and services used by Alstom’s employees (note, the contract does not cover operations of the newly acquired Bombardier Transportation), of which 24,000 have been working remotely during the pandemic."

Working with BT consultants using the Smart Transformation process, which aligns the right solutions to business needs, Alstom reports choosing "a managed network service based on the VMware SD-WAN solution. It will be delivered by BT over its new digital service platform."

We're told the service will help Alstom accelerate its “move-to-cloud” strategy, and "will improve the company’s visibility of network traffic allowing it to optimise end-user experience.

"It also includes a range of fully-managed or co-managed options giving Alstom the flexibility to take control of individual aspects of change management."

Nicolas Vurpillot, network and network security director, Alstom, said: “The move to internet as our primary network is part of our strategic plan: Alstom in Motion. It will provide secure, scalable and reliable access to applications while reducing cost and improving co-management. Following a thorough assessment of available SD-WAN technologies, BT demonstrated willingness and capability to innovate, enhance service levels and partner with Alstom to help us achieve our strategic goals.”

Joris van Oers, the MD of resources, manufacturing and logistics & Europe, Global, BT, said: “We’ve been connecting Alstom’s global operations since 2015 and are delighted to have been chosen again. Alstom will benefit from the very latest VMware SD-WAN service combined with our trusted security, high reliability and a range of management options.

"It is a great example of how our new generation of managed connectivity services give customers choice and flexibility when planning for their digital future.”