Homeland Security

EADS Defence & Security to further improve VIRVE, nationwide authority network in Finland

• Five-year frame agreement for hardware and software upgrades
• TEDS (high-speed data over TETRA) to be introduced for testing

03 June 2008

EADS Defence & Security has been awarded a 5-year frame agreement through its integrated activity EADS Secure Networks by State Security Networks Finland. The frame agreement future-proofs the nationwide VIRVE network for the upcoming 15 years.

The frame agreement includes the hardware and software upgrades that ensure the continuity of the cost-efficient, safe, modern, and reliable authority network VIRVE, as well as the high quality and availability of the services it provides for its 30,000+ users. Deliveries are starting in the autumn of 2008.

The frame agreement also includes the equipment and software for setting up a separate network for testing any new equipment, software, and functions. This network is also where users can be trained for new solutions without a risk of affecting the mission critical network. According to the agreement, TEDS (TETRA Enhanced Data Service) high-speed data, and ISI (Inter-System Interface) will be delivered to this network.

Nationwide roll-out of the VIRVE network started in 1998, and the first parts were in operational use that same year. It has been in full, nationwide operation since October 2002. To be up to speed at all times, such a network needs to be maintained and developed. The investment in further development will be done according to the terms and conditions in the frame agreement.

"The VIRVE network is extremely reliable and secure, and it has to stay that way" says Kimmo Manni, CEO, State Security Networks. "The network handles huge amounts of traffic very cost-effectively, and there is a clear trend towards significant increases in data traffic. The equipment and software included in the frame agreement enable us to be prepared for the future".

"Finland's VIRVE network is a pioneer in Professional Mobile Radio," says Jean-Marc Nasr, President, EADS Secure Networks. "The Finnish authorities have already created extremely advanced ways to use their communications network. We are looking forward to introducing the next step in radio communications to the VIRVE network ".

EADS Secure Networks is an integrated activity of EADS Defence & Security (DS). DS is a systems solutions provider for armed forces and civil security worldwide. Its portfolio ranges from sensors and secure networks through missiles to aircraft and UAVs as well as global security, service and support solutions. In 2007, DS – with around 22,000 employees – achieved revenues of € 5.5 billion. EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2007, EADS generated revenues of € 39.1 billion and employs a workforce of about 116,000.

Link: www.eads.com/tetra

State Security Networks Ltd.

State Security Networks Ltd. operates world’s first nationwide TETRA network - VIRVE network - which is commonly used by Finnish authorities. State Security Networks enables reliable and secure authority communications, and furnishes communication networks with new possibilities. Our operation model is based on security aspects, customer needs and latest technological solutions.

State Security Networks Ltd. is a limited company which is owned by the Finnish Government. In 2007, State Security Networks generated revenue of € 25 million and it has 60 employees. State Security Networks operates nationwide, its headquarters is located in Helsinki. VIRVE-network is used by the emergency and fire & rescue services, the Police, the Defense Forces, the Frontier Guard, Social and Health Services, Finnish Maritime Administration and different government departments.

Link: www.virve.com

Contact:

Erwan HEBRE Tel.: +33 (0)6 78 20 77 85
mailto: erwan.hebre@eads.com