HHLA in Altenwerder Receives Funding for the Establishment of a 5G Network

The Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA) of Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is receiving funding for the establishment of a 5G campus network as part of the “DigiTest” guideline from the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV). The goal of the pilot project is to create a digital test field at the terminal where new use cases can be tested. The use of this new communication technology aims to further increase the efficiency of logistics processes.

(Hamburg) As part of the pilot project “PROCON-5G” (Port Remote Operations and Container Network with 5G), a private 5G mobile network in the form of a digital test field is being established on the premises of the CTA. The network is characterized by high performance and reliability, creating a dependable and flexible communication infrastructure for port logistics. Fast response times and high bandwidths ensure real-time data transmissions that were not possible with previously used technologies. This allows for further optimization of the terminal’s digitized processes. At the same time, the establishment of a provider-independent network strengthens the resilience of communication at the terminal.

Funding Volume of 2.3 Million Euros

The project has a funding volume of around 2.3 million euros and will run until mid-2026. In the coming months, the network will be gradually established. After its construction, the network will be used to test various use cases. Among other things, it will be examined how the 5G network can support the further automation of devices and mobile maintenance. The insights gained are intended not only to support the further development of the CTA but also to be made available to other companies in port logistics.

Michael Albers, HHLA project manager: “By establishing a 5G campus network at the Container Terminal Altenwerder, we are laying the foundation to make our digitized processes even more efficient and reliable. The 5G network is also an important prerequisite for the further automation and digitization of our operations. At the same time, we are pleased to open the CTA as a test field for 5G innovations, thus giving other companies the opportunity to test this forward-looking technology.”

Guideline “Digital Test Fields in Ports”

The PROCON-5G project is one of several projects funded under the guideline “Digital Test Fields in Ports.” With this funding guideline, the BMDV supports the equipping of German sea and inland ports with digital infrastructure for testing innovations in the form of test fields, based on a resolution by the German Bundestag. The project sponsor is TÜV Rheinland.

HHLA/Martin Elsen