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Effective Use of Satellite Communication During Fire Fighting Missions

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Effective use of satellite communication in firefighting endeavors
Effective use of satellite communication in firefighting endeavors

Baden-Württemberg Invests in Satellite-Supported Radio System for Fire Departments

Effective Use of Satellite Communication During Fire Fighting Missions

The German state of Baden-Württemberg is investing in a satellite-supported radio system, named "SaFe" (Satellite Radio Fire Department), to ensure secure communication for fire departments, especially in extreme crises.

Thomas Strobl, Deputy Minister-President and Interior Minister, explained the importance of this investment. He highlighted that the system would provide a reliable communication channel, especially when traditional digital radio networks face high loads or disruptions.

The company providing the "K-Funk" system for the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of the Interior for fire services is Telekom Deutschland GmbH. The contracts for the provision of this system run until 2028, with an initial contract duration of five years. After the current introductory phase for the system and a first evaluation together with the using institutions, the Ministry of the Interior will decide on any necessary adjustments.

The satellite radio system is designed to be self-sufficient, not requiring additional ground infrastructure for operation. It operates by establishing a connection between the antenna and a satellite, making it possible to communicate even in areas without traditional radio towers or masts.

The system is encrypted throughout the entire transport path to prevent unauthorized interception in the satellite radio system. This ensures secure communication, even during extreme crises when traditional security measures may be compromised.

The state has acquired 52 permanently installed building-mounted radio devices and 190 portable satellite handheld radio devices for the satellite radio system. This equipment will be deployed in cities, districts, government districts, and the Ministry of the Interior in Baden-Württemberg.

One of the key benefits of the satellite radio system is its resilience. It continues to function in the unlikely event of a disruption of the digital radio network and remains operational even during prolonged, nationwide power outages.

Authorities and organizations with security tasks in Germany often communicate via Digital Radio. However, Baden-Württemberg’s deployment forces and foreign fire departments cannot always access this network. The satellite radio network aims to address this issue, providing a communication solution that can be accessed by both local and international emergency services.

Under the European disaster protection mechanism, both situations where the digital radio network may fail and where international cooperation is required are possible. The satellite radio system offers a solution that can address both these scenarios, ensuring secure and reliable communication for fire departments in extreme crises.

The company abel&kaeufel from Landshut is responsible for providing the "K-Funk" system. The contract for its provision initially runs for five years. This investment marks a significant step towards ensuring secure and reliable communication for fire departments in Baden-Württemberg, especially during extreme crises.

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