Digital infrastructure is one of the key prerequisites for Germany’s future viability. High-performance mobile networks are now far more than just a technical convenience – they form the basis for economic growth, digital innovation, modern public administration and reliable communication between public authorities and organisations with security responsibilities. At the same time, the demands placed on the availability, security and resilience of networks are constantly increasing. Further expansion must therefore not only be carried out nationwide, but must also meet the challenges of an increasingly interconnected and security-critical world.
By extending key mobile communications frequencies until 2030, the Federal Network Agency has established an important regulatory framework. The decision concerns, amongst other things, the 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz frequency bands and combines long-term planning certainty for network operators with binding roll-out targets. By 2030, almost the entire territory of Germany is to be covered by high-performance mobile network coverage. Furthermore, particular focus is being placed on rural regions: ambitious targets have been set for providing households in sparsely populated communities with high data rates. Major transport routes and waterways are also to be included in mobile network coverage across the board.
These regulatory requirements create the conditions for accelerated network roll-out. At the same time, they send a clear signal that Germany intends to consistently drive forward the further expansion of digital infrastructure. High-performance connectivity has now become a decisive location factor and forms the basis for digitalisation, innovation and social participation.
However, good network coverage alone is not enough. The demands placed on communications networks have changed fundamentally in recent years. In the face of increasing cyber-attacks, hybrid threats and growing geopolitical tensions, aspects such as reliability, resilience and IT security are becoming significantly more important. Critical communications infrastructure must function reliably even under exceptional strain, as its availability has a direct impact on the state’s ability to act, the economy and public safety.
Against this backdrop, dialogue between the political sphere, industry, academia and end-users is of particular importance. Trade associations such as the PMeV make a vital contribution in this regard by monitoring technological developments and fostering dialogue between the relevant stakeholders. Key areas of focus include the further development of security-critical communication systems, the transition from narrowband TETRA solutions to broadband applications for public safety authorities and organisations, and the integration of new technologies such as cloud architectures and artificial intelligence into high-availability communication networks.
The political framework is also constantly evolving. In future, for example, both the funding for the BOS digital radio system and the long-term allocation of radio frequencies are to be improved. In doing so, it is essential to carefully balance the differing interests of security authorities, the broadcasting sector and the mobile communications industry. Only through viable regulatory solutions can existing frequency resources be used efficiently whilst simultaneously taking into account the requirements of all stakeholders.
Germany’s digitalisation therefore requires a holistic approach. In addition to the nationwide roll-out of high-performance mobile networks, particular attention must be paid to security, resilience and future-proofing. Close cooperation between politics, industry, research and professional associations is a crucial prerequisite for this. Only in this way can communication networks be created that meet the demands of an increasingly digitalised society and provide a reliable foundation for the economy, public administration and public safety, even in crisis situations.
Note: The content of this technical article is based on the guest article “Secure Networks for a Connected Country – Setting the Course for Germany’s Digital Future”, which was first published in PMeV Insights 2025/2026. The present article has been independently rewritten and restructured by the editorial team.
