Finnish Critical Communications Network Version 2.0 on its Way

Whether it is a traffic accident, a power outage or a forest fire in a dry season, the crucial information (voice and data) that need to be provided to and between Finnish rescue and security workers should be based on good organization skills and effective communication.

Technology changes
Now, technology has developed so much that Virve, introduced in 2002, is about to end its lifecycle towards the end of the next decade. The current network, based on TETRA technology, transmits speech and text messages, but the authorities also need moving images, which requires a different kind of technology and more capacity. For example, when video footage from a moving drone needs to be viewed as a HUD (Heads Up Display) in the screen of the helmet of a rescue worker.

"There is a need for budget funding for the technical upgrade of this critical function of society," says Secretary of State Päivi Nerg of the Ministry of Finance. 

Cyber Proof

Cyber ​​attacks can undermine the fundamental pillars of society, such as the operation of the electricity grid. However, safety-critical functions must also be able to be handled during an extensive power outage or other exceptional situation.

“Nowadays, security challenges are also different than before. Cyber ​​attacks are happening on a regular bases, and so we need the latest technology available to critical actors,” says Interior Secretary Ilkka Salmi.

Timing
The launch of Virve 2.0 will begin in 2022. Separate networks will secure the services of today's Virve for so long that different operators will be able to switch to new technologies in a controlled manner. Based on Tetra technology, Virve will serve the authorities and other security actors for a long time, at least until 2025.

Commercial operators
Building a new network solely for state emergency services, such as the current TETRA network, is no longer economically and technically feasible now. The network of commercial operators extends widely and is constantly being developed through millions of subscriptions.

“We are now also introducing the technological know-how of commercial operators and linking it with the authorities for good cooperation, ”says Undersecretary of State Päivi Nerg.

Ministries have already begun to plan the transition of work and the organization of the project and a tender is expected to be launched this year.

“The comparison between the services of several MNO's allows us to minimize the risks. The smooth transition to a new network is a big effort that requires good co-operation between different administrative sectors - and that's what we do in Finland. Ensuring citizens' security is a core task of the state, ”says Permanent Secretary Jukka Juusti of the Ministry of Defense.