Narrowband  |   Broadband  |  2026-07-29

ASTRID Advisory Committee of Users Gives Direction to the Future of Mission-Critical Communication

Source: The Critical Communications Review | Gert Jan Wolf editor

The future of ASTRID's NextGenCom devices combine the robustness of classic TETRA radios with the ease of use of smartphones. In addition to mission-critical voice, they also support data and video applications.

Two days of intensive discussions in Brussels, strategic choices for the future of critical communication, and a clear focus on co-creation with the field: the further development of NextGenCom and other important issues for the emergency and safety services have been high on the agenda of the Advisory Committee of Users (RCG) in recent months.

Earlier in 2026, all members and experts of the RCG came together in Brussels for the annual workshop, chaired by Ruben Vansevenant. Members of the CAD consultation platform (COP) also took part in various sessions, including on the future of dispatch center technology (PSAP project). The joint workshop offered a unique opportunity to bring disciplines and consultation platforms together around shared challenges.

Co-creation around NextGenCom

The NextGenCom program, the future generation of mobile critical communication, formed the common thread throughout the workshop. ASTRID currently finds itself in an important preparatory phase. In order to successfully realize the various tracks, clear and broadly supported choices from the field are necessary. The various disciplines were therefore invited to formulate their operational, technical, and organizational needs as concretely as possible. The discussions covered, among other things, network coverage and performance, migration, terminals, security, subscription prices, governance within the CCU-SDAC (Solution Design Advisory Committee), the evolution of the My ASTRID portal, and user satisfaction.

In addition, the further development of the PSAPs and the PURE program was also discussed extensively. After all, it is not only about the evolution of radio communication, but also about the future organization of emergency centers and multidisciplinary cooperation in the field.

Three clear messages emerged from the workshop:

  • moving forward together with a clear methodology and shared insights;
  • co-creation with users remains the key to robust and realistic solutions;
  • user organizations are invited to already take preparatory steps towards NextGenCom, such as budget planning and inventory of radio resources.

New generation of end devices

During the regular RCG meeting in April, the focus was on another important theme: NextGenCom end devices.

The transition from TETRA to broadband communication brings new challenges in terms of device validation and certification. Whereas TETRA radios today consist of a single integrated unit, future NextGenCom end devices will be built up from various components from multiple suppliers: hardware, firmware, operating system, and mission-critical applications such as MCX.

Therefore, ASTRID is working on an extensive validation and certification process in which not only the device itself, but also the complete integrated solution, is checked for performance, interoperability, and security.

ASTRID is closely following international developments regarding NextGen devices and accessories. The lifespan of devices and the future framework agreement with suppliers of certified devices and accessories were also discussed.

In the coming months, additional consultation sessions will follow in which users will be further involved in the technical choices. Members of the RCG were asked to initiate an internal reflection exercise within their discipline regarding operational needs, desired functionalities, and future usage scenarios.

Maximum security for future end devices

The future NextGenCom devices combine the robustness of classic TETRA radios with the ease of use of smartphones. In addition to mission-critical voice, they also support data and video applications.

ASTRID envisages several types of end devices: from "radio-like" devices and ATEX variants to rugged smartphones, tablets, and vehicle solutions. Security remains an absolute priority. Through advanced encryption and strict security rules, ASTRID aims to continue guaranteeing the highest security standards. Certification must ensure that devices function correctly on 3GPP-compliant networks, which is essential for reliable critical communication.

A new identity

During the workshop, chairman Ruben Vansevenant presented the new logo of the RCG. The logo, made up of connected spheres, symbolizes the essence of the committee: collaboration, coordination, diversity, and connection between all user organizations. A strong symbol for a committee that, more than ever, helps shape the future of mission-critical communication in Belgium.

The five colors also refer to the five disciplines of Belgian emergency planning.

What is the Advisory Committee of Users?

The RCG is the official advisory body that represents the interests of the organizations that use the ASTRID network on a daily basis. The committee formulates recommendations – on its own initiative or at the request of ASTRID – on functional, technical, legal, and financial topics that directly impact users and their operations.