BT Group struck a deal to install a 5G private network at the Port of Tyne, using Ericsson equipment following a multi-million pound agreement between the two companies to boost enterprise connectivity.

In a statement, BT noted the Port of Tyne was advancing a bid to become a smart port and private 5G would allow customers to take advantage of a range of technologies including robotics, autonomous vehicles, AI and IoT applications.

The move means a recent agreement with Ericsson to commercialise private 5G networks, in what was claimed as a first tie-up of its kind in the country, is already bearing fruit.

Ericsson will complete the installation, BT stated.

The deal with the port was signed during London Tech Week and includes deployment of surveillance and other technologies, and adds to moves to implement hybrid fibre and 4G.

Revolutionary The private network is due to go live later this year, providing next-generation technology across the port’s entire estate. In terms of immediate use cases, BT expects to provide an operational optimisation programme and container tracking to enhance supply chain efficiency, with 5G also being used to create a clean energy test bed.

Ashish Gupta, MD for corporate and public sector at BT, said the secure network it installed with Ericsson, along with its fibre infrastructure, would provide “the foundation to revolutionise many operations”, along with using IoT sensors to deliver benefits in the use of areas such as heavy plant and machinery.

Kavit joined Mobile World Live in May 2015 as Content Editor. He started his journalism career at the Press Association before joining Euromoney’s graduate scheme in April 2010. Read More >>

GSA finds LTE still dominates private mobile networks

Competition chiefs probe BT Sport JV proposal

BT, Ericsson pitch major UK private 5G move

Partner Feature: Qualcomm 5G Summit highlights

Mobile Mix: Sustainability and San Diego Summits

Feature video: MWC Barcelona 2022 wrap up

© 2022 GSM Association. The GSMA, Mobile World Live, MWC Barcelona, MWC Los Angeles & MWC Shanghai terms and logos are trademarks of the GSM Association

Do you want to hear about the latest developments in mobile technology?

Sign up to our free daily news bulletin