Rural firefighters across New South Wales (NSW) will soon have access to cutting-edge communication technology designed to address blackspots in remote areas. Brisbane-based critical communications firm, Hypha, has begun deploying its state-of-the-art Vehicle-as-a-Node (VaaN) technology, which will be installed in 5,000 NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) vehicles.

As bushfire season approaches, this innovation represents a transformative leap in mission-critical communications for emergency services. Hypha’s VaaN technology combines 4G, 5G, and Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet to transform RFS vehicles into mobile Wi-Fi hotspots. This capability ensures firefighters have access to high-speed data, even in the most isolated locations.

The VaaN system enables seamless communication and data sharing between emergency crews, command centres, and internet-enabled equipment. Firefighters will now have access to real-time intelligence, geolocation data, advanced data feeds, and livestreaming, empowering them to make faster, life-saving decisions during bushfire emergencies.

Neil Jamieson, CEO of Hypha Group, highlighted the importance of this deployment: “The rollout of VaaN technology marks a significant evolution in public safety communications. We are deeply committed to safeguarding communities and the firefighters who protect them. This partnership with the RFS reflects our shared dedication to enhancing operational safety and efficiency.”

Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite technology, widely adopted across regional Australia since 2021, plays a pivotal role in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for these vehicles. Leveraging Starlink’s prioritised service for rural firefighting, Hypha will remotely monitor and manage the installed units to maintain optimal performance, ensuring up-to-date software and seamless integration with mobile data terminals and radio systems.

Hypha has also collaborated with Australian manufacturers and innovative international partners to deliver a comprehensive, locally developed solution.

The NSW Rural Fire Service has expressed strong support for the initiative, which will see the rollout completed over two to three years, accommodating various firefighting vehicles across remote areas.

An RFS spokesperson commended Hypha’s approach: “Hypha has demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique operational and safety challenges faced by the NSW RFS. Their innovative, partnership-driven approach has resulted in an exceptional technical and commercial solution. We look forward to equipping our frontline officers with these capabilities.”

The deployment of this advanced technology underscores a shared commitment to protecting lives, property, and the environment in the face of increasingly severe bushfire seasons.