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EU proposes a 5G-and-satellite emergency network across 31 countries

2026.10.01 Global briefing

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The proposal would link incompatible emergency networks across 31 EU and Schengen-associated countries through one secure framework.

It would not abolish national networks. Countries would retain control while adding common connections and security monitoring.

What changes for responders

The plan moves from narrowband voice radio toward broadband technologies such as 5G, letting responders share video, location, messages and data from one secure device. Cross-agency work during wildfires and floods is the core use case.

What if terrestrial networks fail

EU satellites would provide backup when blackouts or damage disable ground systems. The proposal also includes an optical-fibre Network Monitoring Centre and a Security Monitoring Centre for cyber threats.

EU proposes a 5G-and-satellite emergency network across 31 countries — This AI-generated image explains the topic; it is not a photograph of an actual event, observation or field site.

Do all 31 countries switch at once

No. Existing investments and network designs differ, so countries would connect gradually from 2030. Costs, national timetables and device procurement still need to be set through legislation and implementation.

What remains undecided

The European Parliament and Council must adopt the regulations, and negotiations can change the text. Readers should not interpret the proposal as a network already available today.