NEC Software Solutions (NECSWS) has been awarded an initial 6-year contract, with a further 4 years’ extension, to deliver a new hosted Command, Control and Integrated Communication System for the Network Fire Service Partnership (NFSP) following a competitive procurement process.

The move will give staff and call handlers the latest tools and real-time information they need to quickly dispatch fire appliances to incidents based on their proximity and capability, ensuring fast and effective responses to emergencies.

Tony Oliver, Assistant Director of Digital Systems and Information at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said: “Control firefighters are the start of the frontline. They play a key role in dealing with incidents – determining the scale of response and mobilising the most appropriate vehicles and equipment to tackle fires, animal rescue, chemical spills, road traffic collisions and more. It is therefore vital that the partnership makes the best use of technology to ensure our Control firefighters have the tools and information at their fingertips and can mobilise crews as quickly and effectively as possible.”

The fully integrated, cloud-based system will provide users the latest in Control Room solutions, increased user functionality and an improved user interface. Hosted in NEC data centres, the system will also enable improved resilience and collaboration across the partnership in the delivery of response to incidents across the seven authorities. The system will also include a live video streaming facility and a mobile application for use by officers.

The NFSP, originally a unique collaboration comprising Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has recently expanded to now include Kent Fire and Rescue Service.

Andy Kerr, Principal Client Director, NECSWS, comments: “The expansion of NFSP to include Kent FRS is testimony to the way that this partnership has developed over the years and it’s great to see how our products continue to evolve and support the delivery of mission critical services across the region.”

The system is due to be fully rolled out in late 2026.