Freeport of Riga Launches Private 5G Maritime Network: Redefining Port‑to‑Ship Connectivity
Riga’s Freeport, in synergy with LMT and port technical operator LVR Flote, has officially rolled out a private maritime-grade 5G network that spans from the container terminal to vessels and drones well over 100 miles offshore. Unlike standard cellular services, this private network guarantees ultra-fast, low-latency connections designed specifically for industrial-scale marine use.
The backbone of this breakthrough is “multi-hop” networking—ships acting as dynamic relay nodes, passing 5G signals from one vessel to the next. With tests showing stable links across up to five ships, coverage now stretches a remarkable 100+ miles into the Baltic Sea.
Connectivity isn’t just ship-based—LMT’s 5G drone network, including aerial units, waterborne hydrographic drones (like the OTTER), and pilot craft support seamless data transfer. That means live HD video, real-time seabed mapping, and push-to-talk communication with speeds 10x faster than the old Wi‑Fi/4G systems.
Deeper Impact & Strategic Insights
Since initial trials in November 2023 on the Daugava River, and a major demo in July 2024 on vessels like VARMA and DORE, the system has progressed through live operational deployment at the Baltic Container Terminal. This initiative won the prestigious IAPH Sustainability Award in “Digitalization” in late 2024—positively affecting future export and adoption discussions with major ports across Europe and North America.
High throughput data enables precise hydrographic surveying, remote vessel inspections, and predictive cargo operations. These capabilities not only enhance safety but reduce emissions and resource waste. With robust 5G in place, Riga is building toward a fully-fledged Remote Operations Center (ROC). This will allow centralized, remote-controlled piloting of ships and airborne/seaborne drones, potentially laying the groundwork for autonomous fleets.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Ultra-Reliable Data | Private, low-latency 5G supports mission-critical tasks—even hundreds of miles offshore. |
| Cost & Efficiency | Replacing scores of Wi‑Fi towers with just a couple of 5G antennas simplifies terminal logistics. |
| Pioneering Smart Ports | Positions Riga as a living lab for maritime IoT, drone usage, sensor systems, and autonomous vessels. |
| Exportable Model | With global interest and a strong innovation track record, this model is ready to be marketed to other strategic ports. |
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ROC Development: Plans are underway to build a command center dedicated to managing remote ships and drones over the 5G link.
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Regulatory Roadmap: International collaboration (Latvia, UK, Canada) is producing standards and regulatory frameworks to support widespread autonomous watercraft.
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Scaling Smart Networks: Riga aims to expand into the wider Baltic region—connecting inland terminals, wind farms, and even leisure harbours through an extended 5G mesh.
Riga’s Freeport has catalyzed a maritime tech revolution by deploying an industrial-grade 5G network that doesn’t just connect devices—it connects possibilities. From live seabed mapping and real-time crane coordination to remote operations and autonomous shippers, Latvia’s coastal hub is building the blueprints for future ports around the world.
