As part of the innovation partnership between Naval Group and b<>com, two 5G experiments occurred at the end of 2024. b<>com deployed a private 5G connectivity service at various Naval Group sites. Let's look back at these full-scale tests, aiming to boost productivity on the construction sites and facilitate the work of operators and seafarers.
A first 5G experiment on a test and measurement boat
A Foselev Marine test and measurement ship hosted the first test in the port of La Seyne-Sur-Mer, near Toulon. The goal was to test the digital mobility of operators in real-life conditions, according to the specific constraints of a ship, continuously on deck and inside the boat. The maintained connection between these locations enables various business applications, such as remote-assisted maintenance, file and data sharing, and claims management. To this end, a secure private 5G network guaranteed a connection covering the entire ship, then extended to the quayside. As a result, a positive and auspicious outcome for integrating a private 5G / xG solution on board a ship and on the quayside.
A second experiment at Naval Group's Lorient site
A few weeks after these initial tests, a second 5G private network deployment was held at the Naval Group site in Lorient, which specializes in designing, industrializing, and producing armed vessels and their systems. This time, the aim was to improve safety and operational efficiency. That's why Naval Group and b<>com deployed remote assistance, video protection of isolated workers, and a digital model streaming solution inside a frigate and in the construction form. The tests measured the coverage and performance of 5G connectivity at different stages of construction.
These experiments are part of a key context: moving an established industrial model towards digital transformation and mobile data access. 5G technology enables the development of disruptive, multi-service, and secure innovations, improving site productivity or onboard connectivity and reducing risks during on-site production or onboard maintenance operations. The results of these experiments will prioritize further work, leading to broader deployment over the coming months.
