Next-Generation Virve 2 Services Modernise Communications for Finnish Authorities
With the broadband Virve 2 services, Finland’s public safety network is transitioning from traditional walkie-talkies to smart devices. This evolution brings a host of new features while retaining the trusted capabilities of the original Virve network. As a partner to Erillisverkot, Senop is responsible for supplying Virve 2 devices and providing lifecycle services.
The next generation of Finland’s public safety network, Virve 2, ushers critical communications into the smartphone era. Wireless broadband data transmission enables new capabilities such as real-time video streaming, file sharing, AI-powered solutions and the transmission of sensor data. Virve 2 devices can also support organisation-specific applications, from email and intranet access to operational functions.
Ilari Hatakka, Account Director at Erillisverkot, emphasises that while new features are introduced, the traditional Virve services remain essential.
“The core functions and mission of Virve remain unchanged as the technology evolves. Critical calls are still vital – you need to reach your colleague the moment you press the button,” he explains.
Virve users include Finnish public safety authorities and other organisations critical for security supply and society. One of the main advantages of Virve 2 is its priority functions, which guarantee network availability in all situations.
“Authorities may already use smartphones, but on commercial networks they share bandwidth with the public and face the same risks. Virve 2 brings blue lights and sirens to the mobile environment, while also elevating security to a new level,” Hatakka adds.
Smart Devices for Public Safety Authorities through Collaboration
Virve 2’s new data services are already in use, while authorities are testing communication services. Hatakka expects the communication services to be deployed more broadly over the next two years. The existing TETRA network, reaching the end of its lifecycle, will continue to operate in parallel with Virve 2 until 2028.
As the service operator, Erillisverkot provides, maintains and develops Virve 2 services and ensures that the safety and preparedness requirements for services are met under all circumstances. The services have also been developed in close cooperation with the end-users.
Senop’s Communications division specialises in critical communications solutions. As a partner to Erillisverkot, Senop is responsible for supplying Virve 2 devices and accessories, as well as providing lifecycle services. The seven-year partnership agreement was signed in November 2024.
“The Senop Communications team has a deep understanding of our customers and their operational environment. You could say that ever since Virve devices have been used, Senop’s services have been an integral part of the ecosystem,” says Hatakka.
Toni Leppänen, Sales Director at Senop, says that the partnership is a great continuation of Senop’s longstanding work.
“We’re proud to continue our excellent collaboration with Erillisverkot and the users of Virve services, while also contributing to Finland’s national security of supply,” he says.
“Usability is Everything”
Virve 2 devices are procured through Erillisverkot and delivered to customers by Senop Communications. Senop’s current portfolio includes rugged smartphones and tablets, along with a wide range of accessories such as hands-free headsets, body cameras, protective cases, chargers, and batteries.
“Usability is everything. Devices must be intuitive, dependable, and durable in all situations. They need to withstand extreme conditions – frost, water, dust, and impact. Screen visibility, audio quality, battery life, and physical buttons all play a key role in usability,” explains Leppänen.
Virve 2 devices are built to last longer than consumer devices. Senop Communications also ensures that damaged equipment is quickly repaired and returned to service.
“If needed, we also provide training and guidance to help users get the most out of their equipment,” Leppänen adds.
Innovation on the Horizon
Technological advances are continuously opening up new possibilities for Virve users. For example, in the future, sensors may be integrated into devices to monitor a firefighter’s stress levels or to assess environmental conditions on-site.
“We don’t yet fully know all the ways in which operations will evolve on the broadband Virve network. But I expect we’ll see a shift from laptops to more agile smart devices, particularly in fieldwork,” Hatakka says.
Leppänen agrees: “The potential for innovation is immense – the sky’s the limit.”
Senop Communications is your partner for secure and reliable communications. Our long and varied expertise in communication solutions for authorities and officials ensures that you can always communicate and lead effectively, quickly, and securely.