Inmarsat to work with AT&T for US emergency services broadband network

Satellite telecommunications firm Inmarsat has been selected by US telecoms giant AT&T as a "core team member" for an emergency services broadband network.

The First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) is a US Department of Commerce independent agency that builds, operates and maintains the first US high-speed, national wireless broadband network for the police, firefighters and emergency medical services.

The FTSE 250 company’s subsidiary, Inmarsat Government, will provide satellite communication solutions as part of the FirstNet network.

AT&T and FirstNet have a 25-year agreement to support the network which will aim to improve rescue and recovery operations, and develop public safety focused on internet of things and smart city solutions.

The network will also aim to advance capabilities, such as wearable sensors and cameras for police and firefighters, and camera-equipped drones.

Inmarsat joins Motorola Solutions, General Dynamics and Sapient Consulting as part of AT&T’s team in the project.