Global security concerns boost TETRA covert radio market

The anticipated influx of millions of visitors for the London 2012 Olympics has kicked off a parallel competition between the security agencies that keep the UK safe. Scotland Yard’s drug, murder and anti-terror squads are all going to be at the peak of activity during the summer months. They’ll be joined by other government agencies that keep an eye on immigration, customs and excise, and wider national security.

As ever, the effectiveness of these teams is in some way governed by their kit, the most important of which is likely to be the communications equipment, which these days means TETRA radio. All the government and private agencies that need to keep tabs on criminals and suspect individuals are clamouring for the latest radios and accessories from the manufacturers. The leaders in this field are currently Sepura, Thales and Motorola, but new contender Hytera is one of many challengers aiming to launch new devices in this race.

Naturally, TETRA covert radios require a robust network to operate and the UK’s Airwave network has been in operation for over a decade now. The market is expanding as the possibilities of TETRA are widened, according to Helen Bleasdale of Airwave.

‘The Airwave network has improved coverage, which was patchy in rural and urban areas. Once Suffolk police only had radio coverage in 17% of the county, but now TETRA radio works in 99% of Britain’s landmass,’ says Bleasdale.

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Source: www.wireless-mag.com