Norway to Launch World-First Multi-Network Emergency Communications System

The new system will extend critical voice capabilities to data services, sensor integration, and AI-driven tools, providing emergency responders with richer situational awareness and advanced operational support.

Norway is taking a major step forward in emergency preparedness with plans to build a new national emergency network, Nytt Nødnett, leveraging the latest 3GPP MCX technology.

In an unprecedented move, the network will operate across all three commercial mobile providers – Telenor, Telia, and ice Norge – using their core and radio infrastructures to deliver maximum resilience and robustness.

The initiative, presented this week, is a collaboration between the Direktoratet for samfunnssikkerhet og beredskap (DSB), the Norwegian Communications Authority, and emergency services users.

While Norway’s current Nødnett TETRA Network performs strongly for voice communication, the new broadband critical communications system will extend capabilities to data services, sensor integration, and AI-driven tools, providing emergency responders with richer situational awareness and advanced operational support.

Additional access methods, including WLAN and satellite-based NTN/direct-to-device connectivity, are under consideration to ensure continuous connectivity even in the most challenging conditions. The solution is designed to meet diverse operational needs, with extensive testing and piloting planned to guarantee reliability and performance across the country.

“The new Nødnett will be at least as reliable as today’s system while offering significant technological advancements,” said project representatives. “By integrating all three mobile networks, we aim to ensure robust coverage, enhanced user experience, and more comprehensive situational information for emergency personnel.”

Work on 'Nytt Nødnett' is ongoing, reflecting Norway’s commitment to innovation in public safety communications.