Telekom Introduces New Communication Technology for Emergency Services
Deutsche Telekom is set to revolutionize communication for emergency services in Germany with the introduction of a new technology aimed at replacing the outdated Tetra radio system currently used by police, fire services, and other organizations with security responsibilities. This new system, named Mission Critical Services (MCx), was unveiled at the Digital X conference in Cologne and is expected to undergo testing with various authorities by the end of the year, with a commercial rollout anticipated in the first half of 2026.
The existing Tetra standard, developed in the 1990s, primarily supports voice communication and has limited data capabilities. In contrast, the MCx platform will enable the transmission of high-definition photos, videos, and live streams, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness for emergency responders. Furthermore, the MCx system will allow seamless communication between 5G/LTE devices and existing Tetra radio equipment, promoting interoperability.
Deutsche Telekom emphasizes that the new system will operate over its network, prioritizing data transmission for emergency services. This means that critical communications will be treated with the same urgency as emergency vehicle traffic on the network. Telekom's strategy includes utilizing Network Slicing, a technology that reserves dedicated bandwidth for police and fire services, which has already been tested during significant events, such as the recent UEFA European Championship.
Telekom is collaborating with Motorola Solutions for the development of MCx, which will also supply radio devices and smartphones to emergency organizations. The company has indicated that the new system is not intended to replace Tetra but to complement it, thereby enhancing communication reliability through a secondary channel.
Competitors such as Vodafone and O2 are also developing digital solutions tailored to the specific needs of emergency services. Vodafone's local CEO has indicated that their security network is being refined based on feedback from initial users, with plans to implement features that expedite help in emergency situations.
In contrast, O2's management has expressed concerns about reliance on a single operator's mobile network for emergency communications. They advocate for a unified industry approach that enables multiple networks to be utilized effectively. Proposals have been made for a government-operated core radio network that could provide access to all mobile networks in Germany, enhancing resilience and availability for emergency services.
Oversight of the public safety communication system falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Agency for Digital Radio of Authorities and Organizations with Security Duties (BDBOS). A spokesperson from the agency has stressed the importance of voice communication, noting that while Tetra is aging, it remains a reliable system that operates independently of commercial mobile networks. They are, however, committed to transitioning away from Tetra while maintaining the current standards of quality, availability, and security.
Despite its longstanding reliability, the Tetra system has faced scrutiny due to reported security vulnerabilities. In recent incidents, researchers demonstrated the ability to intercept Tetra communications and inject false data into the system, highlighting the need for modernization.
The Police Union (GdP) has called for careful and collaborative development of the new communication technologies, emphasizing the need for a cohesive digital radio structure that transcends federal and state boundaries.