Effective use of satellite communication in firefighting endeavors
The German state of Baden-Württemberg has announced a significant investment in a satellite-supported radio system for fire departments. This system, known as the "K-Funk" system, is a component of a larger satellite radio system designed to ensure secure communication during extreme crises and heavy digital radio network load.
Deputy Minister-President and Interior Minister Thomas Strobl made the announcement, highlighting the system's ability to provide secure communication for deployment forces when they cannot access the digital radio network. This is particularly relevant for situations where fire departments are deployed abroad or when foreign fire departments are operating in Baden-Württemberg.
The "K-Funk" system, like the satellite radio system, operates without the need for additional ground infrastructure. It requires only a connection to a satellite for communication. The contract for the delivery of the "K-Funk" system to the Ministry of the Interior of Baden-Württemberg has been awarded to the company abel&käufl from Landshut, with the contract initially running for five years.
The system is designed to be very reliable and meets the highest security requirements. Information transmitted through the "K-Funk" system, like the satellite radio system, is encrypted throughout the entire transport path to prevent unauthorized interception. The system is also capable of continuing to function during a prolonged, nationwide power outage.
In a first step, Baden-Württemberg has acquired 52 permanently installed building-mounted radio devices and 190 portable satellite handheld radio devices for the system. The city and district administrations, the government districts, and the Ministry of the Interior will be equipped with the "SaFe" (Satellite Radio Fire Department) system.
The contract for the provision of the "K-Funk" system is separate from the earlier mentioned contracts for the satellite radio system and its components. The contract duration for the "K-Funk" system does not affect the five-year contract for the satellite radio system.
The "K-Funk" system is another component of the overall strategy to enhance secure communication for fire departments in extreme crises. After the current introductory phase for the system and a first evaluation with user institutions, the Ministry of the Interior will decide on any necessary adjustments.
The satellite radio system will provide relief for the digital radio network when it is heavily loaded. It is another layer of security and communication capability for fire departments, ensuring they can continue to function effectively even in the face of disruptions to the digital radio.
