16 January 2025
Designed to prioritize network access for first responders in emergencies, ESN will deliver reliable and seamless connectivity to over 300,000 first responders in the UK.
Samsung will support the core mission-critical communications systems with its best-in-class MCX solution. The MCPTX solution will enable intuitive multimedia sharing in real-time, allowing first responders to assess emergency situations more accurately as well as act with enhanced responsiveness.
“As mission-critical communications are of the utmost importance for the nation's security and protection of its citizens, Samsung is proud to take part in this program to evolve public safety networks in the UK,” said Everth Flores, Vice President and Head of Samsung Networks Europe. “At the heart of this collaboration lies Samsung's undisputed technological competence, on top of the solid trust that we have garnered with our successful mission-critical solution deployments around the globe. Harnessing the momentum of this milestone, Samsung will continue to contribute to building a more secure, connected society.”
“We are proud to support the Emergency Services Network (ESN) in delivering a secure and resilient communications platform to empower frontline emergency services,” said Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner at IBM UK and Ireland. “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.”
Ericsson, too, has announced a new partnership with IBM UK to develop a new communications network for frontline emergency services. Ericsson will leverage its Core Network, and Business and Operations Support Systems portfolios, alongside its mission-critical expertise and other professional services to deliver the new network.
"We're thrilled to participate in this world-leading project that will transform public safety and national security across the UK,” said Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK & Ireland. “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. This cutting-edge technology will enhance the efficiency and safety of our emergency responders, enabling them to work more effectively and ultimately, save lives."
Led by the Home Office, ESN will implement the next generation of fast, safe, and secure voice, video, and data communication, allowing emergency services to work in tandem and coordinate efforts when protecting and aiding members of the public.
Exponential-e has also announced its role in supporting IBM and the Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme. Working with IBM as the lead User Services supplier, Exponential-e’s expertise as an ecosystem partner will be instrumental in supporting the delivery of a secure and highly available communication network, ensuring the ESN is equipped to meet the demands of emergencies.
“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,” said Lee Wade, CEO, Exponential-e. “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.”
Exponential-e will help ensure the infrastructure delivers the reliability and resilience required to enable faster access to data to frontline service users in emergency situations and serve the public more effectively.