On Friday 22 November 2024, extensive tests were carried out on the Belgian coast with the pioneering Citymesh BOLSTER project. In a realistic setting on the beach and sea, the capabilities of this innovative ad hoc communication network were thoroughly evaluated. The results highlight how BOLSTER supports defence, emergency services and other organisations in crisis situations where traditional communication networks fail. In doing so, Citymesh underlines the importance of robust and rapidly deployable communication technologies to save lives when every second counts.
‘With the BOLSTER, we offer emergency services a reliable network when they need it most.’ – Jens Buysse, Research Manager Citymesh
The power of the BOLSTER
The BOLSTER is not just another communication system; it is a robust all-terrain vehicle designed for extreme conditions. The vehicle can effortlessly navigate through sand, mud or rubble and reach even the most remote places. Once on site, the vehicle secures itself firmly in place, after which a telescopic antenna slides up. Within minutes, a powerful 5G communication network is created, acting as a technological beacon in the landscape.
This almost fully automated process guarantees that the system is operational in no time, even in the most challenging situations. This speed and reliability make the BOLSTER a crucial asset for emergency services and defence.
Innovation where it counts
Belgium has repeatedly seen how vulnerable traditional communication networks can be during crises. Overloaded networks, damage to infrastructure and lack of coverage repeatedly hamper efficient crisis response. This is where BOLSTER offers the solution. By using a private network that offers both wide coverage and high data rates, it bridges the shortcomings of existing systems.
‘During our test, we were operational within 6 minutes. We achieved a range of more than 2 kilometres. With a drone and kitesurfers equipped with a GoPro, we also proved that real-time video streaming works in challenging conditionsˮ, says Jens Buysse.
With advanced technologies such as the 700 MHz band for extended coverage and the 2.6 GHz band for applications such as drones and real-time video streaming, BOLSTER enables emergency services to work together seamlessly and act quickly in life-threatening situations.
What makes BOLSTER unique?
BOLSTER distinguishes itself from other systems by:
Versatility: The system is flexibly deployable, from real-time monitoring with drones to connectivity for mobile field hospitals, tailored to the needs of each mission.
Autonomous operations: The vehicle can operate autonomously, without constant human control, allowing responders to focus on their core tasks.
Integrated technologies: The seamless combination of push-to-video PTV, drones and other sensors makes BOLSTER an all-in-one solution for situational awareness and efficient coordination.
Future extensions
‘BOLSTER has huge potential for further development,’ says Jens Buysse, Research Manager at Citymesh. ‘We see opportunities for new applications and collaborations with defence, civil protection and other stakeholders. With its combination of innovative technology, flexibility and scalability, BOLSTER continues to play a crucial role in modernising crisis management and proves how technology can save lives in the most critical moments.’
Citymesh BOLSTER a technological revolution that sets the standard for emergency communications.
About Citymesh
Citymesh is a leading Belgian technology company, which has been the solution partner for business customers with innovative issues for almost two decades. Founded in 2006, the company mainly focuses on providing both permanent and temporary connectivity solutions, using WiFi, 0G, 4G and 5G technologies. Citymesh operates in various sectors, including industry, logistics, public services, the offshore market, education, healthcare and smart cities, and also provides its services at numerous events and festivals.
After acquiring spectrum bands in June 2022, Citymesh gained the status of the fourth official telecom operator in Belgium, but the company strives to be more than just a traditional telecoms provider.
Citymesh distinguishes itself through a personalised approach and a focus on pioneering projects, such as the Safety Drone project, which uses 5G technology to remotely control drones that support emergency services. Citymesh has more than 320 employees who are committed to delivering innovative solutions to their customers.
Thanks to our partners
- imec IDLAB
- Benchmark Telecom
- Municipality of De Haan
Royal Higher Institute of DefencePress contact for this project: Jens Buysse – Jens.buysse@citymesh.com – +32 479 32 21 72
Draadloze connectiviteit voor succesvolle evenementen – Citymesh
