Nokia has unveiled a light and ultra-compact 4G network, based on a small cell, that will allow secure mobile broadband connectivity in minutes for mission- and business-critical services.

Having pioneered the development of low-footprint networking technology with its Network in a Box last year, Nokia has taken the concept of creating rapidly deployable networks further with its Ultra Compact Network. Based on small cells technology, it provides secure indoor and outdoor 4G coverage wherever it is deployed with a range of 75 km for up to 400 users. In remote, underserved areas it can provide capacity and coverage, and can utilise cable, satellite or microwave technologies for backhaul to extend an operator’s existing macro network.

The Ultra Compact Network will allow first response units to utilise voice and video as well as other data-based services in emergency situations when mobile networks have been compromised. Where there is no road access it can be carried in a backpack, or elevated via a drone or weather balloon, providing vital connectivity for search and rescue missions or to help control disasters such as forest fires or floods over wide areas.

Thorsten Robrecht, head of Advanced Mobile Networks Solutions at Nokia, said: “The Ultra Compact Network is an exciting addition to Nokia’s end-to-end portfolio of technologies for mission- and business-critical communications. The need for rapidly deployable 4G solutions is closely linked to the explosion of video and data usage in public safety scenarios.”