Pioneering ports to incorporate 5G private networks in Europe

Project Leader

The Port of Tyne (one of the UK’s largest ports), in partnership with BT and Ericsson, and the Port of Barcelona in partnership with Orange are responsible for the project.

Description of the project

The Port of Tyne has launched a project to implement a private 5G network and smart port technology throughout the port area.

In order to achieve full coverage and become the first smart port in the UK with independent connectivity, the Port of Tyne has incorporated an innovative infrastructure based on an Ericsson Private 5G solution and BT spectrum to improve connectivity across the entire length of the port.

This has allowed the implementation of improvements to begin this past November. During this first phase, automatic number plate recognition using video and installed sensors has been incorporated, as well as automated inspection and identification of containers using AI-powered software.

In future scenarios, this new infrastructure will enable further improvements such as the implementation of advanced autonomous navigation technologies, remote crane operations, land and sea connected drones dedicated to infrastructure inspection, wearable technology and XR devices, and even the implementation of an ecosystem of AI sensors to improve operational efficiency.

The Port of Tyne is not alone in this implementation as the Port of Barcelona will also deploy its own 5G network with Orange for the America’s Cup, which will be hosted in 2024. Through this implementation, the Port area will have both land and maritime coverage for the more than 500 companies that carry out their activities in the port area, with the aim of promoting their technological development.

These new infrastructures will allow independent connectivity and the incorporation of new technologies to facilitate port operations.

The Port of Barcelona manages to position itself and, together with the Port of Tyne, to be one of the first in Europe to have its own 5G network.

Objectives of the project

The main objectives of the implementation of 5G wireless networks in the port sector include improving efficiency by streamlining the port’s daily tasks, improving security by increasing remote operations and reducing carbon emissions.

In addition, this initiative will enable greater connectivity, which will lead to efficient collaboration between shipping companies and logistics providers worldwide to address challenges such as climate change and cybersecurity threats, driving growth and innovation.