Nokia and blackned team to create next-generation deployable tactical networks

Finland’s Nokia and German company blackned, in which Rheinmetall holds a 51% stake, have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to create advanced deployable tactical networks for the defence sector, the companies jointly announced on 28 May 2025.

The partnership brings together Nokia’s 5G technology and blackned’s expertise in defence digitalisation to develop high-performance, next-generation tactical communications solutions designed to provide secure and reliable connectivity for military operations in the field.

Under the agreement, the companies will integrate their respective product and solution portfolios to design a unique, deployable communication system tailored to Germany’s defence needs and adaptable for use in other countries. This collaboration will leverage Nokia’s 5G tactical communications technology and blackned’s software-based defence solutions, creating an ideally integrated network for Rheinmetall’s Battlesuite digital platform.

Deployable tactical networks are cutting-edge, mobile solutions designed for quick deployment and extended reach. Built for various battlefield environments, these systems provide reliable, uninterrupted connectivity and high data rates, thus enhancing situational awareness, speeding up decision making and improving asset co-ordination.

“Blackned is dedicated to advancing innovation in defence digitalisation, and our agreement with Nokia represents an important milestone in that mission,” Timo Zaiser, CTO at blackned, was quoted as saying in a joint press release. “Together, we will provide powerful, flexible and future-ready tactical network solutions built for the realities of modern defence.”

Giuseppe Targia, head of Space and Defense at Nokia, added, “In a rapidly evolving tactical environment, speed, mobility and adaptability are paramount. Through the partnership with blackned, our 5G technology will empower defence forces to deploy robust communication capabilities swiftly and share intelligence more effectively, providing our customers with a decisive advantage on the battlefield.”