Nokia, Telia and the Finnish Defence Forces have successfully demonstrated the world’s first seamless 5G standalone slice handover across multiple national networks.
The trial was achieved through Nokia’s 5G Core Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) and AirScale 5G base stations powered by ReefShark System-on-Chip technology, connected to Telia’s commercial network
Conducted in Finland during March, it marks a significant advancement in 5G capabilities for critical communications, particularly within the defence sector. Additionally, Nokia’s intelligent network management system, MantaRay NM, provided a consolidated network view, optimising monitoring and management.
The demonstration involved a continuous and secure data connection maintained over a dedicated 5G standalone network slice while moving across three distinct mobile networks in three separate countries. The capability was showcased as part of a Nordic exercise involving the Finnish Defence Forces.
The technology leveraged Telia’s network infrastructure, underpinned by Nokia’s 5G Standalone Core and AirScale radio equipment. The trial team reported an uninterrupted user experience despite the cross-border movement. The achievement is considered crucial for modern defence operations, where coalition forces increasingly require seamless and secure access to mission-critical applications and services while operating beyond national boundaries.
A significant milestone
The successful cross-border 5G standalone slice handover signifies a major advancement for critical communications, particularly in defence, enabling seamless and secure information flow for multinational operations and uninterrupted access to vital services across national boundaries. This world-first demonstration in a live network highlights the maturity and practical viability of 5G standalone technology, potentially leveraging commercial infrastructure for military use. Beyond defence, this capability has significant implications for other mission-critical sectors like emergency services and logistics, underscoring the power of network slicing to provide dedicated and reliable connectivity in complex, multi-network scenarios.
The milestone also demonstrates how 5G can be leveraged to improve critical defence communications by providing:
Seamless coalition operations: Modern military operations increasingly involve multinational coalitions. The technology enables uninterrupted and secure communication for defence units as they move across national borders, crucial for maintaining situational awareness and co-ordination.
Uninterrupted mission-critical services: Military personnel rely on various data-intensive applications and services. The handover capability ensures continuous access to these vital tools without disruption when crossing borders.
Improved security: 5G standalone architecture with network slicing offers enhanced security features, allowing for the creation of isolated and protected communication channels for sensitive military data.
“This trial marks a significant milestone in showcasing the dual-use possibilities of 5G for defence while also enhancing communication capabilities within the NATO domain. We are delighted to have partnered with Nokia and Telia on this project and are eager to explore further opportunities for integrating 5G into our operations,” said Jarmo Vähätiitto, Major General, Finnish Defense Command, Chief of C5.
“5G and network slicing enable secure, mission-critical communications. In collaboration with the Finnish Defense Forces and Nokia, we are pioneering in using commercial technology for critical defence communications. This trial meets the Defense Forces’ needs and proves that commercial 5G networks can be utilised also in this domain,” commented Jari Collin, CTO at Telia Finland.
“Seamless 5G slice continuity over country borders is a breakthrough for defence operations, enabling secure and reliable communications for collaborative missions that extend beyond national territories. Our trial with Telia and the Finnish Defense Forces reflects our commitment to delivering robust 5G solutions for defence customers, helping them achieve mission-critical objectives,” added Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia.
