New communications network promises to improve the way 300,000 frontline staff work together
The government has begun a new partnership with IBM to deliver the much-delayed Emergency Services Network (ESN).
Originally announced in 2023, the ESN is intended to provide the UK’s more than 300,000 emergency responders with better technology and faster access to data to aid them in emergency situations and frontline operations. This will enable police forces, fire services and ambulance trusts to share live data and imagery, location reports and essential public safety information – and help them to save lives.
Now, IBM is coming in as ‘User Services partner’ on the initiative, leading on systems and service integration across the mobile services functions that are essential for the new network. That includes delivering a dedicated dual 4G/5G standalone mobile core network and IT infrastructure. IBM will also provide a 3GPP-compliant solution for mission critical services as well as customer support services.
While leading on the project, IBM will work closely with a range of other technology partners including Exponential-e, Samsung Electronics, Ericsson, Frequentis and Palo Alto Networks. Exponential-e, for example, will help ensure that the new infrastructure delivers the required reliability and resilience.
The initial seven-year contract is worth £1.362bn and runs until December 31, 2031. There is an option to extend this for two further 12-month periods – that is, up to December 31, 2033 – for an additional £0.242bn.
Dame Diana Johnson, Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, says: ‘Every day our brave emergency services help members of the public facing life-or-death situations. We must do everything we can to maximise the chances of successful outcomes, and communications between frontline staff is critical to ensuring this. 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.’
Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner at IBM UK and Ireland, adds: ‘We are proud to support the Emergency Services Network in delivering a secure and resilient communications platform to empower frontline emergency services. Working with our ecosystem partners, we will deliver mission-critical services for first responders to enhance safety in our communities across Great Britain. We look forward to working with the government to deliver this in a timely and cost-effective manner.’
Lee Wade, CEO of Exponential-e, says: ‘We are honoured to provide a key role in this vital programme which represents a transformative step in modernising communications for emergency services across the UK. This project represents a tremendous opportunity for Exponential-e to expand our presence in the public safety sector and build on our experience in providing high-performance network and managed services.’
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