IBM & Ericsson to Transform UK Emergency Services Network

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IBM and Ericsson are supporting a UK Home Office project to improve emergency service networks (Image: IBM)
IBM and Ericsson have been selected to upgrade the UK’s emergency services network, offering 4G/5G connectivity for critical operations across the country

Emergency services communications networks across Europe are facing a critical transition period, as aging Terrestrial Trunked Radio Airwave (TETRA) systems reach the end of their operational life. These networks, first deployed in the early 2000s, have provided reliable voice communications but lack the data capabilities required for modern emergency response.

The challenge of replacing these systems while maintaining uninterrupted service has led to significant delays in modernisation projects across multiple countries.

Image: IBM

With this in mind, the UK Home Office has selected IBM, the global technology services provider and telco leader Ericsson, to support them in a significant project to deliver a new Emergency Services Network (ESN) in the country. 

The contract will see both companies replace the existing TETRA system with a dual 4G/5G standalone mobile core network designed for mission-critical communications. It is part of the Home Office’s Plan for Change initiative.

Dame Diana Johnson, Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention for the UK government | Credit: House of Lords

"This government is working tirelessly to support this project, making sure it is delivered in a timely and cost-effective manner and IBM will be an important part of bringing the Emergency Services Network online," says Dame Diana Johnson, Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention.

How IBM supports emergency service networks

IBM will serve as the User Services supplier, responsible for designing and integrating the ESN platform. The system will enable data sharing, imagery transmission and location reporting across 300,000 emergency service personnel in Great Britain.

The integration project includes the development of specialist applications and services designed for police, fire services and ambulance trusts. These systems will support real-time coordination and communication among emergency responders.

"We are proud to support the Emergency Services Network in delivering a secure and resilient communications platform to empower frontline emergency services," says Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner for IBM UK & Ireland.

Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner for IBM UK & Ireland | Credit: IBM

Alongside this, Ericsson will provide the Core Network infrastructure, alongside Business and Operations Support Systems. The new platform will replace the TETRA-based Airwave system, which has been in operation since the early 2000s but lacks modern data transmission capabilities.

The new network infrastructure will enable emergency services to share video feeds and location data in real-time, capabilities not supported by the current TETRA system.

Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK & Ireland, says: "Leveraging our global expertise in telecommunications and mission-critical networks, we are proud to contribute to the creation of a next-generation Emergency Services Network that will redefine global standards for emergency response systems."

Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK & Ireland | Credit: The Swedish Chamber of Commerce for the UK

Confronting implementation challenges

Included within the contract is a possible extension beyond 2031, reflecting the long-term nature of the infrastructure project and its significance to national security.

The new system will operate on a dedicated dual 4G/5G standalone mobile core network, incorporating 3GPP-compliant Mission Critical Services for voice, video and data communication. Similar systems are currently operational in the US, Canada and South Korea.

The process of migrating to a newer system involves coordinating across multiple emergency service organisations while ensuring uninterrupted communications.

IBM's IT infrastructure will support the new network's increased data handling requirements. The technology giant’s experience in large-scale system integration will be central to managing the technical complexities of the transition.

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Ericsson's involvement brings expertise from similar deployments worldwide, having already worked to boost network experience with 5G Advanced technologies. The company's mission-critical network solutions have been implemented in multiple markets, providing a foundation for the UK project.

The transition marks a significant development in emergency services communication infrastructure. 

Rahul adds: "Working with our ecosystem partners, we will deliver mission-critical services for first responders to enhance safety in our communities across Great Britain."


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