Baltic states unite to modernize Rail Baltica with 20 new regional trains

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are teaming up to buy up to 20 new regional trains for the Rail Baltica route. The joint purchase aims to modernise rail travel across the three countries. Each nation will order its own fleet, with deliveries set to begin in late 2029. The tender process for the trains has been extended, giving suppliers until mid-June to submit their bids. Estonia plans to run its regional service from Tallinn to Häädemeeste, with stops at over a dozen stations along the way. Future plans may also see the line stretch to Riga in Latvia.

Lithuania will order up to eight trains, while Estonia expects between five and seven. Latvia will buy up to five, though the exact number will depend on passenger demand and infrastructure progress. The trains must be ready in time for operations to start by the end of 2030. Each train will feature around 200 seats, dedicated catering areas, and more toilets than current models. Unlike long-distance services, these trains will operate only within each country’s borders, stopping at local stations. Latvia’s procurement will run alongside ongoing infrastructure work to ensure smooth integration. The first trains are scheduled to arrive in Estonia in the second half of 2029. They will begin passenger services roughly a year later, once testing and staff training are complete.

The new regional trains will improve connections between towns and cities along the Rail Baltica route. With more seats, better facilities, and faster journeys, they aim to make local rail travel more convenient. Operations are expected to start in Estonia by late 2030, with other countries following shortly after.