According to a statement the RRF programme is focussed on providing “a secure and resilient broadband network for domestic security and emergency rescue forces” in the country.” This will take the form of a 4G and 5G “priority” system, boasting – as might be expected – a high level of resilience.

The project is intended to equip up to 400,000 users, including those in the national gendarmerie and national police force, as well as firefighters and other civil security forces.

Alongside Airbus and Capgemini, other companies involved in the roll-out include Econocom, Prescom, Samsung and Streamwide. Capgemini “will integrate the many sets of expertise provided by all the project partners. This includes Dell Technologies for the cloud infrastructure it will provide, in support of Ericsson’s 5G telecommunications services.” 

Speaking of the project, Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury, said: "I would like to thank the Ministry of the Interior for the renewed trust it has placed in us in the context of this strategic program for French security and emergency rescue services. 

“All our teams have been mobilised to provide a secure and sovereign solution to carry out missions of the utmost criticality in the service of French citizens. This project demonstrates the importance of modernising critical systems, at a national and European level."

Aiman Ezzat, CEO of Capgemini, said: "RRF will be a crucial transition for the operational efficiency of the security forces and future uses of digital technology. It is a matter of national sovereignty and the starting point for a European sector of excellence.”