Nokia Begins Digitization of Belgian Port of Zeebrugge with 5G Private Wireless

Nokia recently announced that it has completed the first phase of Port of Zeebrugge’s 5G-ready, industrial-grade private wireless network deployment. By deploying the Nokia Digital Automation Cloud platform, the company reportedly will provide private wireless connectivity to more than 100 endpoints across the entire port operations. This will enable Zeebrugge to deliver a range services that improve the port’s operational performance and, according to the release, differentiate Zeebrugge as a leader in port transformation and digitalization.

Following successful deployment of the Nokia private wireless network, Zeebrugge will be able to track, analyze and manage connected devices across multiple port-based applications in real time. The end-to-end, high-performance 5G-ready network will accelerate port innovation and automation with deployment of IoT, autonomous vehicles, augmented reality and drones.

“Introduction of an advanced private wireless network will act as a beacon for our partners to develop and deliver new solutions right across the logistics value chain,” said Rick Goetinck, CEO, Port of Zeebrugge. “Nokia, in close collaboration with local service provider Citymesh, has demonstrated outstanding 5G capabilities during platform deployment, making phase one a complete success.”

The network reportedly is now being used for connectivity with tugboats, air pollution detectors, security cameras and quay sensors. Its high-bandwidth and low-latency connectivity will also be leveraged during the upcoming construction of a new sea lock and during building and maintenance of offshore wind farms. Phase one has established increased automation in Zeebrugge’s outer port area. Phase two, due for completion in mid-2020, will focus on the inner port.

“By deploying a Nokia 5G-ready digital automation platform with a private wireless network, the Port of Zeebrugge brings high-performance connectivity and digitalization to enhance safety, accelerate innovation, enable advanced applications and deliver new levels of logistics performance,” said Stephan Litjens, General Manager, Nokia Digital Automation.

Several external suppliers have also signed up to the network, which will be used by port-based companies for dispatching, connectivity with straddle carriers, track and trace systems and integrated communications.