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Ericsson, Palo Alto Networks Partner With IBM to Develop Great Britain’s Emergency Services Network

Ericsson, Palo Alto Networks Partner With IBM to Develop Great Britain’s Emergency Services Network

Ericsson and Palo Alto Networks have partnered with IBM UK to develop the Emergency Services Network in Great Britain, which is comprised of England, Wales and Scotland. The multiyear project, led by the U.K. Home Office, aims to provide a secure communications platform for over 300,000 emergency responders, such as police, fire and ambulance services. The network promises faster data access and enhanced collaboration during emergencies.

IBM will oversee the design, construction and integration of the ESN platform, providing the essential IT infrastructure for improved communication capabilities. Ericsson will contribute products from its core network, business support systems and operations support systems portfolios to help build the network. Meanwhile, Palo Alto Networks will be responsible for securing the system, implementing its Precision AI solution to protect the mobile network, cloud assets and security operations centers. Additionally, Palo Alto Networks will offer round-the-clock cyber incident response and digital forensic services to address evolving cyberthreats.

Once completed, the ESN will enable emergency services to share live data, imagery, location reports and crucial public safety information in real time, significantly enhancing their response efforts. According to the British government, it will also allow responders to access updated products and applications tailored to their needs as technology evolves.

Katherine Ainley, CEO of Ericsson UK & Ireland, emphasized the transformative potential of the ESN for public safety and national security.

“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,” the executive said. “This cutting-edge technology will enhance the efficiency and safety of our emergency responders, enabling them to work more effectively and ultimately, save lives.”

The contract for the project will run for seven years, ending on Dec. 31, 2031, with options to extend for two additional 12-month terms.

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