Telefónica Spain and Amper have been selected to modernize the Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) and Terrestrial Trunked Radio (TETRA) communications networks serving ten airports operated by Aena. The project focuses on upgrading the communications systems that support airport coordination in operational environments where dependable connectivity is essential. By improving these networks, the companies aim to increase the resilience and availability of communications used across critical airport services.

The modernization program includes upgrades to existing communications infrastructure through the deployment of advanced authentication and encryption technologies across both network components and user terminals. These enhancements are intended to strengthen the protection, integrity, and security of communications while improving the reliability of systems that support operational coordination throughout airport environments. The work will be carried out over a 36-month period.

The project covers Josep Tarradellas Barcelona–El Prat, Málaga–Costa del Sol, Palma de Mallorca, A Coruña, Girona–Costa Brava, Tenerife South, Fuerteventura, Seve Ballesteros–Santander, La Palma, and Valencia airports. According to the announcement, each of these facilities forms part of Aena's critical airport infrastructure, making reliable communications an essential requirement for daily operations.

The upgraded DMR network will continue supporting voice and data communications used across business and industrial environments, while the TETRA network will provide secure and highly available digital communications for mission-critical operations requiring advanced capabilities. Together, the two technologies form the communications foundation for coordinated airport services in demanding operational settings.

The contract also expands the existing collaboration between Telefónica and Amper, reinforcing their ability to deliver complex technology projects where security, continuous service, and high system availability are required. The companies said the project will further strengthen communications supporting strategic airport infrastructure throughout the participating airports.

📊 What This Means (Our Analysis)

Reliable communications infrastructure is fundamental to the operation of critical facilities, and this project focuses on strengthening the systems that enable coordination across airport services. By combining network modernization with stronger authentication and encryption, the initiative places equal emphasis on operational continuity and communications security.

The agreement also demonstrates how technology partnerships can support long-term infrastructure upgrades in environments where uninterrupted service is essential. Modernizing established communications platforms while maintaining high availability creates a practical foundation for supporting critical operations over the coming years.

📌 Our Take: Strengthening communications resilience remains a core requirement for the safe and efficient operation of critical infrastructure.