Pro-M and Ericsson

Emergency response is a sector that’s constantly evolving with the increased needs of the people it serves. For Hungary’s first responders – the police, ambulance and fire brigade – the need for uninterrupted communication and instant access to information to coordinate their response effectively, has never been greater. But traditional narrowband networks often struggle to keep up with these demands. That’s why Hungary's pioneering PPDR broadband network is a major leap forward for the country’s emergency services. By deploying Ericsson’s next-generation dual-mode core network, Hungarian first responders can effortlessly communicate via phone, video and SMS, and access real-time information seamlessly, no matter where they are. Increasing public safety, and setting a new global standard for how 4G/5G technology can empower frontline responders in any given emergency situation. 

Since 2006, Hungary’s TETRA-based narrowband network has provided reliable group voice communication for mission-critical services, but its limitations in meeting the evolving demands of modern emergency response became increasingly apparent. Limited bandwidth could hinder situational awareness in emergency situations, while coverage gaps could result in increasing dropped calls in remote areas, potentially compromising public safety.   

• ​​​Rich media sharing
  No proper support for real-time sharing of rich media and large data files, like HD video and high-resolution images. 
• Increasing security concerns
  While narrowband network features are encrypted and adequate for voice communications, they’re not robust and advanced enough to handle the increasing volume and sensitivity of data transmitted by first responders or evolving cyber threats.
• Network capacity
  The increasing number of users and devices, along with the growing demand for data-intensive applications, can place a significant strain on narrowband networks. 
• Voice and data interoperability
  When every second counts, interoperability with other organizations is critical.

Moving to an end-to-end broadband PPDR network directly addresses these challenges. By harnessing the power of Ericsson’s next-generation dual-mode 5G Core and IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), the solution provides first responders with secure and reliable realtime voice, data, image and video communication, as well as enabling connected vehicles.

The solution includes:

• ​​​Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core and IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS)  

• 5G Radio Access Network (RAN)  
• ​​​Ericsson NFVI, VoLTE 

Solution advantages

• Enhanced security and privacy: Robust security features, including encryption and advanced authentication protect sensitive data and communications, ensuring confidentiality, and safeguarding operational integrity.  

• Enhanced situational awareness: The end-to-end broadband network provides responders with real-time access to critical information, supporting third party apps which can provide, for example, detailed maps and blueprints, location services, live video feeds and high-resolution images, enabling faster and better-informed decision-making.  

• Countrywide connectivity: Leveraging the capabilities of 4G and 5G, the broadband network promises to further expand coverage across Hungary, particularly in rural and remote areas, and potentially challenging terrains.   

• ​​​​​Increased collaboration and cooperation: The new network's capabilities facilitate improved coordination between Hungarian emergency response agencies in criminal matters, counterterrorism, and natural disasters.  

• Accelerated administrative efficiency: 4G/5G capability and low latency enables significant acceleration of administrative processes, supporting technology like e-government solutions and facial/fingerprint recognition, streamlining procedures and enhancing efficiency.   

• Smooth migration: Initially, the new broadband PPDR network will run alongside the narrowband network to ensure a phased roll out, minimizing disruption to critical services and ensuring continuity for Hungarian first responders.  

• Flexible and scalable: Ericsson’s 5G dual-mode core network provides a flexible and scalable infrastructure that can be easily reconfigured and expanded, ensuring Hungarian emergency response can adapt to changing demands, integrate new technologies, and maintain cutting-edge capabilities.   

The deployment of the end-to-end broadband PPDR network is already having a transformative impact on emergency services in Hungary. While currently operating on 4G, the transition to 5G is underway and is expected to be operational by the end of 2025, with Pro-M and Ericsson committed to ongoing enhancements and integration of new applications to ensure it remains at the forefront of public safety technology. 

First responders now have access to real-time information and enhanced communication, revolutionizing operations. Paramedics can utilize group video calls to consult with specialists remotely, enabling faster, more accurate assessment, treatment and information sharing between the ambulance and central hospital, saving critical time. While police officers can capture, share and receive live video streams from body cameras or drones, enhancing their situational awareness and promoting greater accountability.

The new network also provides low latency, improved capacity and increased availability, reducing the number of dropped calls and empowering first responders with always-on access to the tools and network devices they need to save lives. Advanced security features, such as encryption, also address the security and privacy risks associated with first responders sharing sensitive information on public networks and apps. And as Pro-M has a 99.99% service level agreement with the government, ensuring countrywide availability and security is paramount.  

This project marks a significant milestone in Hungary's public safety strategy, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and the wellbeing of its citizens, and it’s also a testament to the strong partnership and close collaboration between Ericsson and Pro-M. Open communication, daily interaction and the expertise of local and international teams ensured the project ran smoothly, enabling the broadband PPDR network to be deployed in just one and a half years. As the network continues to evolve and expand, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in saving lives and ensuring the safety of Hungarian citizens for years to come.