5G for Mission Critical Communications: RESPOND-A Project Experiences

The enhanced 5G network capabilities for mission-critical communications (MCC) can be utilized by first responders in different use cases, both inland and for maritime safety purposes, including the support for Search and Rescue (SAR) missions. Fast and secure information exchange between control room dispatchers and on-site assets is of core importance for an efficient and timely response. 5G network slicing, enhanced data rates, low latency services, machine-type, and sidelink communications, enable successful management in a crisis environment through coordination of the latest generation of surveillance devices, unmanned vehicles (aerial and surface), various sensors, and actuators, virtual reality services, etc. This paper first provides a brief overview of the most important 5G capabilities and services that improve MCC. Then, experiences collected in two pilots realized in the frame of H2020 project RESPOND-A, concerning 5G support for MCC in earthquake and forest fire scenarios, as well as the planned pilot in maritime SAR operation, are presented.