Broadband  |  2023-10-17

Nokia and EGC to Deploy the First Private Wireless Network at a Caribbean Port for KFTL

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

Nokia Digital Automation Cloud together with MXIE will enhance broadband connectivity, lower latency, increase predictability and provide edge computing capabilities to improve KFTL terminal operations.

Nokia announced that it has been selected by Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) to deploy the first private wireless network at its container terminal in a port in the Caribbean. The network was installed and will be deployed by Nokia Channel Partner EGC International.

KFTL is a modern and competitive transshipment port serving Central America and the Caribbean. It also serves major markets on the North and South America east coasts and facilitates post-Panama vessels transiting the Panama Canal. KFTL’s Digital Transformation journey has become a reference in the Americas due to the adoption of new technologies such as the Nokia DAC (Digital Automation Cloud), and MXIE a high performance, end-to-end wireless private network and industrial digitalization platform. Both technologies will be deployed at KFTL to deliver industrial-grade connectivity and edge computing capabilities.

Nokia's solution will enable KFTL to meet the growing demands of modern logistics, improve safety measures and strengthen overall productivity with top-notch wireless connectivity at docks and port yards. 

Use cases include critical communications support for the Terminal Operation System (TOS) and other operational systems and applications, connectivity for more than 100 VMTs (Vehicle Mounted Terminals), cranes and trucks, as well as the deployment of more than 100 tablets and 260 devices (push-to-talk over LTE) for staff. Soon, up to 1,300 devices will be connected and remote operations and real-time monitoring of terminal equipment will be enabled.

Marcelo Entreconti, Director of Nokia Enterprise for Latin America, said: "We are very pleased to collaborate with KFTL to increase its regional competitiveness. Nokia solutions are key enablers for terminal productivity, efficiency and safety and security operational improvements. As the first private wireless network project in a Caribbean port, this deployment will benefit KFTL’s digitalization journey.”


Carlos Cabrera, Chief Operating Officer of KFTL, said: "We aim to go beyond our customers’ expectations in our service delivery. We are committed to continually improving our operations safely and keeping innovation as part of our DNA. Nokia's LTE and 5G private wireless network is a key component of KFTL's strategy to drive endpoint productivity and security."

Victor Agnellini, CEO of EGC International, said: "We are excited to join forces with Nokia to deliver a new era of connectivity at KFTL. Our commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with Nokia's expertise for cutting-edge networking solutions. This partnership will empower the terminal with advanced technology, optimizing operations and ensuring seamless communication for all stakeholders.”