The Georgia State Patrol has transitioned to using Southern Linc's mission-critical-push-to-talk (MCPTT) service for its primary voice communications, effectively replacing the state-owned VHF system over the past 18 months. Captain Brian Screws, Chief Information Officer for the Georgia State Patrol, confirmed the shift during a recent presentation at APCO 2024 in Orlando.

"For years, Southern Linc's LTE network served as our backup," Screws explained. "During severe weather events like snowstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes, our state-owned assets often failed us. We instructed our teams to rely on Southern Linc when our VHF system went down, and over time, it became clear that Southern Linc's network was more reliable."

The agency's reliance on Southern Linc's MCPTT service was made easier by the adoption of L3Harris XL-series devices. These devices, which combine P25 radio functionality with 3GPP-standard public-safety LTE communications, allowed for seamless integration of both networks.

"Connecting the XL series radios to both LTE and broadband, along with our scattered P25 systems, was a game-changer," Screws noted. "Our troopers and dispatchers now have access to cutting-edge technology while retaining the ability to revert to our previous system with the push of a button. This level of flexibility is invaluable."

Southern Linc, a wireless carrier serving Southern Company utility’s communication needs, transitioned its network from iDEN technology to LTE in 2017. The L3Harris XL-series devices have been pivotal in making Southern Linc's MCPTT service more appealing to public safety agencies like the Georgia State Patrol.

David Keith, Southern Linc’s Marketing and Sales Director, emphasized the importance of bridging the gap between LMR and LTE. "The introduction of the L3Harris XL device was the game-changer," Keith said. "It bridged the interoperability gap, making Southern Linc's network a viable option for agencies like the Georgia State Patrol."

Currently, the Georgia State Patrol still maintains its legacy VHF system, but Screws hinted that this may change in the future as the Southern Linc option offers significant cost savings.

"The Office of Planning and Budget at the state Capitol is already questioning how long we need to continue funding maintenance on the old [LMR] towers," Screws said. "While I'm cautious about phasing out the VHF system too quickly, I foresee a conversation about reducing its funding in the next few years, once we've ensured that the new system is as robust and reliable as possible."