The award-winning project aims to enhance maritime communications by delivering 5G connectivity over open waters.
LMT, LVR Flote, and the Freeport of Riga joint project, “Seamless 5G Connectivity in the Baltic Sea,” has won the International Association of Ports and Harbours (IAPH) Sustainability Award in the “Digitalization” category. A total of 71 projects in six categories were submitted for this year’s award, which was presented in Hamburg during the IAPH World Ports Conference.
The award-winning project is a maritime 5G connectivity solution provided by LMT, Latvia’s leading mobile communications and technology company. The solution aims to enhance maritime communications by delivering 5G connectivity over open waters. That way, it addresses the critical need for real-time, high-capacity data exchange in maritime operations and contributes to the sustainable operation of ports and the shipping industry.
The solution was developed in cooperation with a technical services provider for the ports – LVR Flote, a subsidiary of the Freeport of Riga Authority, and tested at the Port of Riga and at sea this summer.
“Technology innovations created in Latvia have repeatedly proven to be unique and effective not only in the Baltic region but also on a broader scale. LMT’s achievements in 5G, IoT, smart city solutions, and defence technologies have been recognised internationally for several years, and the maritime 5G solution, for which we have received this award, is a prime example. It is also another proof that the path of innovation can open up new export markets for Latvia and promote international competitiveness by offering technological solutions with high added value,” says LMT President Juris Binde.
In July 2024, LMT, in collaboration with LVR Flote, conducted a 5G maritime connectivity demonstration at the Port of Riga, testing the 5G multi-hop concept – it’s when the 5G network signal is passed from one ship to another, enabling both shore-to-ship and ship-to-ship communication. This demonstration marked the first-ever successful 5G connectivity solution using ships, air drones, and water drones. The test showcased how 5G connectivity ensures the seamless, real-time transfer of large volumes of data, delivering uninterrupted communication capabilities at sea.
“Together with our excellent partners, LMT and the Port of Riga, LVR Flote has become a leader in maritime innovation in Latvia. The 5G cooperation project extends far beyond our own operations, benefiting ports across the Baltic Sea and enhancing the region’s global competitiveness. We are proud that our work has been well acknowledged, and we will continue to develop our shared vision of connectivity opportunities in the maritime industry,” said LVR Flote Board Member Kaspars Ozoliņš upon receiving the award.
“I am particularly pleased that the Port of Riga has won in the Digitalization category. I firmly believe this achievement is rooted in the Port of Riga’s strong commitment to a digital future and unwavering support for innovation. As the only European port nominated in this category, we are proud to contribute to a greener, more connected Europe by enabling real-time data exchange, enhancing operational efficiency, and reducing environmental impact,” says Ansis Zeltiņš, CEO of the Freeport of Riga.
The IAPH Sustainability Award recognizes outstanding port sustainability projects globally, with submissions entered into the World Ports Programme Sustainability Database. A total of 71 projects were submitted for this year’s award across six categories: Digitalization, Infrastructure, Health, Safety, and Security, Caring for the Environment, Building Community, and Climate and Energy.