BT signs deal to bolster DEFRA’s connectivity with 4G network

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The deal will see BT provide the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) with thousands of mobile connections for both workers and environmental sensors

Today, BT has announced a ‘multi-million-pound’ contract to use its network to connect 34,000 workers and devices for DEFRA.

The five-year deal will see the operator (EE)’s 4G mobile network connect various IoT sensors that provide real-time monitoring of various environmental situations across England, Scotland, and Wales, including disease outbreaks, water quality, and flooding.

EE’s 4G network covers more than 99% of the UK population, as well as providing 94% geographic coverage in England, 89% in Northern Ireland, 87% in Scotland, and 86% in Wales, as of the start of 2024.

“It’s a privilege to welcome DEFRA to the EE network and to support their mission to restore and enhance the environment for the next generation,” said Andy Rowe, BT’s Director of Central Government. “Their workers perform critical work across the UK and it’s vital they are provided with reliable network coverage, especially in times of crisis.”

In related news, earlier this year DEFRA expanded a partnership with IT infrastructure giant Kyndryl to support the organisation’s core network infrastructure.

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Author: Ernestro Casas -

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