From Legacy Radio to Mission-Critical Broadband: Zebra Technologies on How the Shift Can Succeed

With 20 years of field experience behind him, Oliver Ledgard maps out Zebra Technologies' strategy for securing public safety's most critical technology transition.

As public safety agencies across EMEA accelerate their migration from legacy narrowband radio systems to mission-critical broadband networks, the stakes have never been higher. The Critical Communications Review sat down with Oliver Ledgard, Government and Public Safety Director EMEA at Zebra Technologies, to discuss how the company is helping frontline responders navigate this complex transition. From ruggedised devices built for the harshest conditions to RFID-powered asset visibility and government-grade mobile security, Ledgard outlines why a phased, resilient approach is a responsible path forward.

Strategy

What are the pillars of Zebra’s public safety strategy, and how do they work together?

Our strategy focuses on supporting frontline operations and is based on three connected pillars. Firstly, digitising fieldwork with secure, rugged mobile devices. Secondly, ensuring total asset visibility with RFID, so equipment is always tracked and ready. Finally, helping agencies master the transition to mission-critical broadband without compromising connectivity or security. These elements create a resilient ecosystem that helps public safety professionals work more safely and effectively.

Police, fire, and ambulance services all have unique operational needs. What is Zebra's approach to supporting these diverse requirements?

That’s right, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work across the emergency services. So we work closely with each organisation to understand their specific operational challenges, and then configure our portfolio accordingly. Police forces use our RFID solutions for robust evidence tracking, fire services use them to monitor PPE lifecycles safely, and ambulance trusts automate vehicle checks to get crews on the road faster. It is about tailoring the technology to the task.

Events

What are Zebra’s key themes for its participation at CCW this year?

Our primary focus at CCW this year is on advanced device security and operational resilience, highlighting our commitment to securing the digital frontline as agencies migrate to next-generation networks. We’re showcasing our 'security by design and at every layer' philosophy, which means that our entire portfolio is built from the silicon up to be robust and trustworthy. For example, the Zebra FR55 First Responder Mobile Computer features a specialised Secure Access Module (SAM) component, which provides enhanced, tamper-resistant storage for cryptographic keys and secure data. It’s used by public safety personnel and mission-critical networks to authenticate users, encrypt sensitive data, and ensure highly secure communications.

What are the most important conversations you are having with public safety leaders about the future of critical communications?

The most pressing conversations revolve around successfully navigating the shift from legacy radio to mission-critical broadband. Leaders are focused on how to de-risk this migration and ensure seamless interoperability, often discussing hybrid or dual-device strategies. The priority is maintaining operational resilience and ensuring government-grade security for mobile data, so the frontline experiences a smooth, secure transition without any loss of capability.

Broadband 

What is your picture of how national agencies are navigating the migration to mission-critical broadband networks is progressing?

It is a diverse picture globally, with agencies moving at very different paces. Some, like the UK, have ambitious timelines to transition from legacy systems like TETRA, others are taking a more measured approach, preferring to establish stable broadband networks before fully committing. What we are seeing consistently, however, is a preference for phased, controlled transitions, often using dual-device strategies, to ensure interoperability and minimise risk for frontline responders.

Device-to-device

How is the industry collaborating to create the next generation of reliable device-to-device connectivity?

Replacing legacy Direct Mode Operation is a critical industry challenge which many global stakeholders are actively collaborating to solve. For example, our partner Qualcomm is developing standards-based solutions for ensuring responders can still communicate when off-network. Zebra is involved with the TCCA and partnerships with Telefónica and other carriers on concepts like 5G 'tactical bubbles'. So we’re focused on delivering practical, resilient connectivity wherever it is needed.

Design, reliability 

Did frontline feedback contribute to how the FR55 was designed?

Yes, frontline feedback was the foundation of the FR55's design. We wanted to deliver a device that required no compromises in the field, so its ergonomics are based on direct user input. That’s why it features a top-mounted red duress button, a dedicated PTT button, and a screen that works flawlessly with gloves or in the rain. Every feature was purpose-built to be intuitive and usable with one hand in difficult conditions.

Shift handovers need to be fast and secure. How can device sharing be made easier and safer for emergency personnel?

Shift handovers need to be efficient but cannot compromise on security. We address this with advanced authentication solutions like Identity Guardian. It allows personnel to unlock a shared device quickly using biometrics, following a quick scan of their personal barcode. This removes the friction of manual logins and speeds up the handover, while maintaining a rigorous audit trail of who is using the device and when. But it’s just a helpful option if an organisation wants it.

Resilience

Does Zebra provide public sector agencies with long-term device lifecycles and software support?

Yes, we recognise that public sector procurement cycles demand extended hardware and software lifecycles. The FR55, for instance, is supported through to at least 2033 and is upgradable to Android 18. Our LifeGuard™ for Android™ programme guarantees a minimum of eight years of service and security updates. This long-term commitment helps agencies lower their total cost of ownership and ensures their devices remain secure and functional for years.

Budget efficiency is top of mind for many public safety leaders. How can agencies maximise their existing resources and avoid unnecessary equipment purchases?

Budget efficiency is a constant pressure for leaders. One of the most effective ways we can help is by improving asset visibility. Using RFID technology, we can give agencies a real-time, digital overview of their equipment, from uniforms to high-value medical supplies. By knowing exactly what they have and where it is located, agencies can prevent unnecessary replacement purchases, manage lifecycles more smartly, and do more with their existing budgets.