Palo Alto Networks to Secure Great Britain’s Emergency Services Network with Advanced Cybersecurity Solutions
Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), the global leader in cybersecurity, has announced a strategic collaboration with IBM and the UK Home Office’s Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme (ESMCP) to develop cutting-edge solutions for the Emergency Services Network (ESN). This multi-year initiative, spearheaded by IBM UK, aims to deliver a modern, highly secure voice and data platform that will enhance front-line operations for police, fire, and ambulance services across Great Britain. The project will also provide a unified platform to facilitate seamless collaboration and data sharing during emergencies.
As part of this critical national infrastructure project, Palo Alto Networks will play a pivotal role in securing the ESN. Leveraging its industry-leading Precision AI™-powered cybersecurity platform, the company will ensure comprehensive protection across the network, including mobile networks, cloud assets, and security operations center (SOC) environments. Additionally, Palo Alto Networks will offer 24/7 cyber incident response and digital forensic services, supported by its renowned Unit 42® Incident Response Services. This integrated approach will enable the ESN to achieve optimal security outcomes while safeguarding against evolving cyber threats.
A Unified Approach to Securing Critical Infrastructure
The partnership underscores a shared commitment to delivering a secure and resilient communications platform for first responders. By leveraging Palo Alto Networks’ advanced technologies, the ESN will benefit from:
- Zero Trust Mobile Network Security: A unique approach to securing mobile networks, ensuring only authorized users and devices can access sensitive systems.
- Advanced Threat Protection: Real-time detection and mitigation of sophisticated cyber threats using Precision AI™, minimizing false positives and enhancing overall security effectiveness.
- Streamlined Security Operations: Improved threat detection, response, and operational efficiencies through a unified platform that integrates network, cloud, and security operations.
- Compliance and Best Practices: Incident response processes aligned with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and the ESN’s specific risk profile.
These capabilities will empower emergency services to operate confidently in an increasingly complex threat landscape, ensuring they can focus on their mission-critical work without compromising security.
Leadership Perspectives on the Collaboration
Rahul Kalia, Managing Partner, IBM Consulting UK & Ireland, expressed pride in supporting the ESN:
“We are proud to support the Emergency Services Network in delivering a secure and resilient communications platform to empower frontline emergency services. Working with our ecosystem partners, we will deliver mission-critical services for first responders to enhance safety in our communities across Great Britain. We look forward to working with the Government to deliver this in a timely and cost-effective manner.”
Helmut Reisinger, CEO of Palo Alto Networks, EMEA & LATAM, emphasized the importance of securing national infrastructure:
“We are proud to be part of such a critical national infrastructure project alongside IBM and other partners to ensure the security and communications resilience of the Home Office’s Emergency Services Mobile Communications Programme. We commend the UK’s Home Office for their vision for secure modern IT transformation through security platformization.”
Why This Project Matters
The Emergency Services Network (ESN) is a cornerstone of public safety in Great Britain, enabling police, fire, and ambulance services to communicate effectively during emergencies. However, as cyber threats grow more sophisticated, securing this critical infrastructure becomes paramount. Cyberattacks targeting emergency services could disrupt operations, compromise sensitive data, and endanger lives.
By partnering with Palo Alto Networks and IBM, the UK Home Office is taking proactive steps to mitigate these risks. The integration of Precision AI™ and Zero Trust principles ensures that the ESN is equipped to handle dynamic threats while maintaining operational efficiency. This initiative not only protects vital communications but also sets a benchmark for securing public sector networks globally.
Key Benefits for Emergency Services
The deployment of Palo Alto Networks’ solutions will provide several key advantages for the ESN:
- Enhanced Resilience: The platform’s robust architecture ensures uninterrupted communication, even during high-stress scenarios or cyberattacks.
- Improved Collaboration: A common platform enables seamless data sharing between emergency services, fostering better coordination during crises.
- Future-Proof Security: With a focus on scalability and adaptability, the solution is designed to evolve alongside emerging threats and technological advancements.
- Operational Efficiency: Streamlined security operations reduce complexity, allowing emergency services to focus on their core mission.
About Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks is the global leader in cybersecurity, committed to making each day safer than the one before. Powered by Precision AI™, the company delivers industry-leading solutions in network security, cloud security, and security operations. Its platformization approach integrates diverse security tools into a unified, scalable platform, providing comprehensive protection and operational efficiencies.
From defending network perimeters to safeguarding cloud environments and ensuring rapid incident response, Palo Alto Networks empowers organizations to achieve holistic Zero Trust security. This enables businesses and public entities to confidently embrace digital and AI-driven transformations in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
Palo Alto Networks is proud to be recognized as a leader in workplace culture and inclusivity. The company has been named among Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplaces (2021-2024) and earned a perfect score on the Disability Equality Index (2024, 2023, 2022) and HRC Best Places for LGBTQ+ Equality (2022).
For more information, visit www.paloaltonetworks.com.
