Ericsson teamed with the Canadian government to build a 5G failover for business network focused on defense and public safety.
The program will be run through the Advanced Wireless Communications Innovation Network (AWIN), created via an exclusive partnership announced by Ericsson Canada with the Government of Canada.
AWINs purpose: security, public safety and defense use cases
AWIN is intended to advance public safety, security, and defense systems through wireless technology efforts targeted at future use cases. The Department of National Defence and other levels of governmental departments are expected to develop and test future wireless use cases via AWIN.
Participation is expected to extend beyond government teams, with Indigenous organizations, first responders, Canadian enterprises, and academia involved in AWIN development and testing.
How AWIN is built: Ericsson networking plus Area XO
AWIN will combine Ericssons network technologies with Area XO to provide a secure environment for developing and testing wireless use cases.
Ericssons Device Network Testing, combined with Area X.O., is intended to accelerate wireless technologies and engage Canadian innovators, with the initiative described as building on 5G infrastructure that enables advancements in AI and IoT for defense and emergency response.
Trial targets: critical infrastructure, interoperability, and response coordination
The initiative will enable real-world trials intended to strengthen critical infrastructure, improve interoperability, and support users in critical defense and public safety sectors.
As part of the initiative, Ericsson will provide access to local connectivity solutions for first responders, intended to help them improve communication, coordination, and response times during emergencies.
Made-in-Canada R&D and deployment scope
The partnership is setting the stage for research and development and implementation of made-in-Canada solutions for defense and public safety critical sectors.
Ericsson said the arrangement is focused on developing and testing use cases within the AWIN environment, with the program designed to move from development work into real-world trials for the sectors involved.