HM Coastguard switch to state-of-the-art search and rescue radio network

Fibre technology that will give HM Coastguard even more options for hi-tech lifesaving search and rescue telecommunications came into effect in December.

Lee-on-the-Solent became one of the first of 165 HM Coastguard radio sites to switch to a state-of-the-art search and rescue radio network.

The new network uses fibre technology and will allow HM Coastguard to continue to receive distress calls from all maritime users and seafarers and co-ordinate rescue operations.

Lee-on-the-Solent will be closely followed by radio sites in Crystal Palace, Humber Bridlington and Brighton Marina before all 165 sites are switched to the new network over the next two years.

The Maritime Coastguard Agency is investing over £175 million in upgrading the Coastguard’s national radio network, as the legacy copper-based network becomes increasingly outdated. 

The replacement technology will bring improvements across the radio network such as increased security and bandwidth. This will allow the Coastguard to invest in advanced search and rescue technology that requires a digital connection and high bandwidth, to enhance life-saving operations, where every second is essential. 

Damien Oliver, Commercial and Programmes Director for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, said: “This new national radio network will be central in preventing the loss of life on the coast and at sea. The entire network, spanning 165 radio sties around 11,000 mile of UK coastline, will be switched on over the next two years, maintaining Coastguards’ ability to receive and act upon distress alerts from shipping and talk to HM Coastguard’s helicopters and planes.

“After one of our busiest summers on record, it is evident now more than ever, that we provide a state-of-the-art radio network system that will allow our Coastguards to continue saving lives and provide reassurance that we are here to respond to any emergency, along the coast or at sea.”

The new network is being built and maintained by Telent Technology Services Ltd.

Peter Moir, Managing Director of Network Services at Telent, said: “As a provider of critical digital infrastructure services, we are proud to have been selected by the MCA to provide the new full fibre network to HM Coastguard’s remote radio sites. Today is an important milestone and we will continue to work collaboratively with HM Coastguard to deliver the new network to support their lifesaving work.”

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