Narrowband  |  2023-12-12

Radiocoms Awarded Contract for Fireground radio Upgrade by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

Under the terms of the contract, Radiocoms will deploy the Motorola Solutions MOTOTRBO R7 digital GPS two-way radio.

Radiocoms Systems Ltd (Radiocoms) has been awarded a contract by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) to upgrade their fireground digital two-way radio system as part of their digital transformation plans. GMFRS is one of the largest fire and rescue services outside of London, employing over 2,100 individuals and operating 41 fire stations.

Under the terms of the contract, Radiocoms will deploy the Motorola Solutions MOTOTRBO R7 digital GPS two-way radio selected for its design and ability to address many of the challenges faced by firefighters. Radiocoms will utilise the Wi-Fi capabilities of the radio to provide support, firmware updates, and configurations remotely.

In addition, GMFRS selected the NS750 remote speaker microphone. The NS750 features advanced noise suppression and cancellation technology, reducing ambient noise and improving voice intelligibility. This upgrade will significantly enhance communication capabilities for BA wearers, and officers operating PPV (Positive Pressure Ventilation) fans and UHP (Ultra-High Pressure) lances.

By working in tandem with their existing infrastructure, the MOTOTRBO R7 and NS750 will seamlessly integrate with GMFRS' current communication systems. This state-of-the-art radio system offers improved functionality, flexibility, and enhanced coverage, providing GMFRS with mission-critical clear communications on the fireground.

As part of the contract, Radiocoms will also provide ongoing support and maintenance services.

 Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service, Mark Scoales, Head of Digital Services

"GMFRS have worked closely with Motorola and Radiocoms to improve and develop a radio that can deliver critical communication in extreme conditions. GMFRS prides itself in delivering innovative solutions that improve firefighter safety and effectively respond to the increasing risks across Greater Manchester, such as the increasing numbers of high-rise buildings.  These new radios provide several key improvements to securely communicate with our firefighters, such as louder audio, lighter devices, clearer communications, and GPS. These radios demonstrate GMFRS's commitment to innovation and technology to improve firefighter safety at incidents and allow for further development in the future."

Simon Bingham, Senior Account Manager, Radiocoms

“Radiocoms is proud to be continuing our successful partnership with GMFRS by securing this new contract. This further solidifies Radiocoms' reputation as a trusted provider of communication solutions for the emergency services. With over 30 years of experience in this industry, we are committed to delivering innovative, reliable, and resilient communication systems that meet the demands of these critical environments.”

John Charlton, Channel Account Manager, Motorola Solutions

“Fire services across the UK continue to trust the MOTOTRBO R7 radio because of the reliable and resilient communications it provides. Paired with the NS750 remote speaker microphone, it will help to ensure that GMFRS’ frontline teams can communicate clearly during emergency responses.”

“Alongside Radiocoms, which plays an important role in the delivery and deployment of Motorola Solutions’ fireground technology, we continue to work to develop innovative solutions that help our customers to work more effectively every day.”