BAPCO 2025: Showcasing the power of partnership
The British Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (BAPCO) brings together pioneers in public safety information and communications technology who are shaping the future of emergency services. At BAPCO 2025, Ericsson and IBM as key ecosystem partners are jointly showcasing their role in the Emergency Services Network (ESN), highlighting their collaborative efforts to deliver cutting-edge solutions that enhance public safety. ESN will change how first responders communicate and operate in critical situations, offering a modernized communications system better suited to today’s challenges and paving the way for more efficient and effective emergency responses.
The need for modernization
While the current Airwave system has served well, its limitations in data capabilities are hindering the potential of modern emergency response. For instance, the existing network's inability to share rich images, video, and more precise location data in real time limits responders' access to crucial information during fast-evolving situations. In an increasingly digital world, our emergency services deserve communication tools that match the complexity of their challenges. The leap from Airwave to ESN will be a step-change in capability and functionality for emergency responders.
ESN: A new phase for emergency communications
ESN is the new critical communications system developed by the UK Home Office which will be built on a modern mobile platform, designed from the ground up to enhance public safety operations. With ESN, over 300,000 emergency services personnel will benefit from broadband data and new data sharing capabilities, including live imagery and location reports. IBM is leading an ecosystem of global partners, including Ericsson, to provide User Services for ESN, combining world-class expertise to create a world-leading emergency communications network. Once operational, ESN will revolutionize emergency response by enabling personnel with advanced tools that enhance their decision-making capabilities, improving efficiency and safety in critical situations.
Imagine a multi-vehicle pileup on a foggy motorway. With ESN, first responders arriving on the scene would be able to instantly access real-time traffic camera feeds, giving them a bird's-eye view of the accident before they even step out of their vehicles. Paramedics could then transmit live video to hospital trauma teams, allowing for immediate triage and preparation. Police could quickly access vehicle registration data and medical histories of those involved, streamlining their investigation and potentially saving crucial minutes.
A world-leading network for mission critical operations
In the context of User Services, ESN will harness 4G and 5G standalone architecture, with Ericsson contributing key components including the Core Network and Business/Operations Support Systems, in addition to other services. IBM's leading role in design, build and system integration will ensure ESN isn't just powerful, but also intuitive and easy to use for frontline workers, and is seamlessly integrated into existing operations.
Alongside the US, France, Sweden, and Finland who have implemented similar technologies, the UK's ESN project is setting a global standard for modern emergency communications worldwide. ESN is not just about today's emergencies – it's a platform for continuous innovation in public safety for years to come. It's a key component of the UK government's drive to make the nation's streets safer, aligning with the Prime Minister's Plan for Change by providing emergency services with improved technology.
A safer tomorrow, starting today
ESN represents more than just a technological upgrade; it's a commitment to the safety and well-being of both emergency responders and the public they serve. As we stand on the brink of this new era in emergency communications, we invite you to join us at BAPCO 2025 to understand how ESN will transform public safety. Together, we're not just preparing for the emergencies of tomorrow – we're actively shaping a safer future for generations to come.
