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Ericsson provides advanced hybrid WAN connectivity solutions for Surrey Search & Rescue (Surrey SAR) through UK Connect’s SARNET (Search & Rescue Network), helping improve response times and survival outcomes.
Surrey SAR is a voluntary blue light team tasked with search and rescue operations for high-risk missing persons across Surrey and the UK. With more than 2,000 people going missing in Surrey alone each year and deploying on average once per week, the team needed a robust connectivity solution to support their work in any weather condition and anywhere in the county.
Ericsson’s ruggedised R2100 in-vehicle router provides this reliable, instant, always-on connectivity even in the most challenging environments and across differing terrain. Its dual-SIM modem design means it can switch between cellular providers or fall back to satellite networks if needed when teams operate in difficult or remote locations, ensuring search teams remain connected at all times.
“We’ve seen the impact of advanced connectivity in defence, where rapid decision-making and real-time intelligence are critical. Applying this same technology to search and rescue means we can locate missing people faster, improve coordination with emergency services and ultimately save lives.”
PJ Farr, CEO of UK Connect and Search & Rescue team member.
This allows rescue teams to respond faster, communicate more effectively with other emergency responders, and take advantage of new technology like drones in life-critical situations, leading to a better outcome for missing people.
The power of SARNET and connectivity
The inspiration for SARNET emerged from UK Connect’s experience with defence organisations. UK Connect and Ericsson adapted these battle-tested technologies to improve the speed and efficiency of locating missing persons. Previously hindered by unreliable connectivity, search teams often relied on paper maps or slower manual coordination when digital tools were unavailable.
However, with the introduction of Ericsson’s R2100 vehicle router, teams now enjoy instant connectivity, enabling real-time coordination with emergency services, secure access to online planning and mapping tools and communication from the moment they arrive on-site.
“Search and rescue teams operate in extreme conditions and terrains, where every second counts. Advanced technology like drones and intelligent mapping are crucial tools in this race by enabling responders to search a wider area in a shorter amount of time. But for them to operate effectively they need reliable, high-speed connectivity.
“By integrating our advanced vehicle-based connectivity with UK Connect’s expertise in systems integration, and Panasonic’s Toughbook 33 we are ensuring that first responders have the technology they need to act quickly and effectively in life-or-death situations.”
Mo Taufiq, Senior Partner Manager at Ericsson.
Surrey Search & Rescue is a voluntary organisation that relies entirely on public donations to support its life-saving operations. To support Surrey Search & Rescue, click here.
The industry will once again be gathering at the NEC, Birmingham for The Emergency Services Show, co located with The Emergency Tech Show on 17-18 September, check out the full exhibitor list here. You can find Ericsson in Hall 4, Stand B105 and Panasonic Connect Europe in Hall 5, Stand C110.
You can also find the Association of Lowland Search and Rescue in Hall 5, Stand CZ82.
