Optus and Nokia have partnered to trial new drone-based network solutions aimed at quickly restoring mobile connectivity in the aftermath of natural disasters.
This collaboration follows a series of mobile network outages experienced by customers during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, where power loss and flooding disrupted communications and highlighted the need for more flexible emergency response options.
Optus and Nokia have developed a telecommunications payload solution that can be deployed using the EON800 Tether Drone System, designed and produced by Melbourne-based XM2, as well as a compact portable small cell. Both solutions are intended to provide rapid restoration of voice and data services to affected areas.
Small cell solution
Nokia’s compact small cell technology is engineered to be lightweight and easy to deploy. It can be positioned on a tripod or pole and establishes a connection via a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite back to the operator’s core network, allowing it to function independently without requiring nearby mobile towers. This capability focuses on re-establishing basic connectivity for users within disaster zones where ground-based infrastructure is compromised or unavailable.
The small cell solution has the capacity to reinstate both voice and data services swiftly in disaster-impacted regions, supporting communication between local residents, emergency services and authorities.
Tether drone telecommunications
To further extend coverage, the EON800 Tether Drone System – integrated with Optus and Nokia’s telecommunications payload – can deliver 4G and 5G coverage, including voice and SMS services, within an approximate 2-kilometre radius for multiple handsets. Data connectivity speeds of up to 100 Mbps have been observed in demonstration environments.
The tethered drone system provides 4,500 W of continuous power and high-speed fibre connectivity to a heavy-lift platform, supporting up to 15 kg of payload. It is capable of sustained operations at altitudes as high as 120 metres for up to seven days, ensuring ongoing service delivery even in remote locations.
This drone system is powered from the ground station, enabling continuous 24-hour operation without the need for recharging – deemed an essential feature for emergency response, temporary accommodation zones, or recovery operations where network infrastructure is absent.
Image©Telconews
