- IBM has been awarded a contract to upgrade the UK ESN
- EE will provide the project’s mobile communications infrastructure
- Similar projects have already been rolled out in the US, Canada and South Korea
The Home Office has confirmed it will use IBM to deliver the Emergency Services Network (ESN) in Britain, including police, fire and ambulance services.
This move will hopefully give more than 300,000 first responders faster access to data, real-time video and secure voice communications.
By sharing live data, images and location updates, responders can efficiently coordinate support, which can help speed responses and reduce wait times.
IBM selected as Emergency Services Network partner
Police Minister Dame Diana Johnson will oversee the project to ensure it remains on track following several delays to the ESN rollout in the lead up to this announcement.
“This government is working tirelessly to support this project and ensure it is delivered in a timely and cost-effective manner, and IBM will be a key part of bringing the Emergency Services Network online,” Johnson said.
The announcement highlights an example where emergency responders in the event of a serious traffic accident could send their exact GPS location to other services. Firefighters could then identify the vehicle model to prepare necessary cutting equipment or understand electric vehicle battery placement, while paramedics would have quicker access to patient data such as previous medical conditions.
ESN is described as the “next generation of fast, safe and secure voice, video and data communications” that “enables emergency services to collaborate and coordinate their efforts.” Countries such as the US, Canada and South Korea have already implemented similar systems.
IBM UK & Ireland Managing Director Rahul Kalia added: “Working with our ecosystem partners, we will deliver mission-critical services to first responders to improve safety in our communities across Britain.”
In a separate one announcementIBM confirmed that the ESN contract will last seven years, with an option for a two-year extension. Ecosystem partners include Samsung Electronics, Ericsson, Frequentis, Exponential-e and Palo Alto Networks.
The Home Office also confirmed that EE has won the contract to provide the mobile communications infrastructure for the project.