Klaipėda Port has announced that Telia is set to trial Lithuania’s first 5G standalone (SA) network at the port.
The tests will reportedly enable the Klaipėda State Seaport Authority and companies operating in the port to experience the advantages of a private 5G network, while paving the way for rollouts at critical infrastructure sites across the country, reported the port.
As modern ports increasingly move towards automation, the 5G SA network will allow terminals to connect container cranes, autonomous vehicles, and other equipment to their private 5G network.
In addition, port staff can replace their old devices in favour of a 5G-based Push-to-Talk (PTT) system, which supports seamless communication via a smartphone app. PTT will reportedly offer improved audio quality, wider coverage and separate channels for each port division. Crucially, the system will function even during external network outages.
“Klaipėda Port is already among the most digitally advanced ports in the Baltic Sea region – we operate freight and goods information system (KIPIS) and information system of shipping management in the seaport (LUVIS), and we are actively developing a digital port twin,“ said Algis Latakas, Director General of Klaipėda State Seaport Authority.
“Testing a private 5G network is another strategic step forward. It maximises data security and makes advanced automation possible, while laying the foundation for future smart port infrastructure solutions.”
Giedrė Kaminskaitė-Salters, Head of Telia Lithuania, said: “The architecture makes the port’s network more resilient to hybrid threats, while ensuring even faster data transmission.
“This pilot will allow us to prepare for wider deployment across industries where uninterrupted connectivity is essential. We’re opening a new technological chapter in Lithuania.”
Earlier this March, the Klaipėda Port Authority announced its plans to invest €308 million ($322 million) in modern infrastructure, maritime business value creation, and sustainability solutions.