The UK has joined a new global coalition to enhance communication network resilience and telecoms innovation and is set to invest £70 million in advancing domestic “next-gen” telecom technology.

The Global Coalition on Telecommunications (GCOT), which has also been joined by countries including Australia, Canada, Japan, and the US, will explore opportunities for closer coordination in areas such as research and development, information sharing and international outreach.

“Telecommunications networks are the lifeline of global economies, and safeguarding their resilience and security in an evolving, interconnected world is a top priority for our governments,” said Michelle Donelan, secretary of state for science, innovation and technology. “By joining forces, the UK and our partners are well-positioned to take the lead in broadening supply chains, nurturing industry knowledge, and bolstering security to address emerging challenges.”

The £70 million funding comes through the UKRI Technology Missions Fund.

On the investment, Dr Kedar Pandya, executive director, cross-council programmes at UKRI said: “This £70 million investment will, via the Future Telecoms UKRI Technology Missions Fund (TMF) Programme, form part of the UK’s contribution to international cooperation in this field and provide tangible benefits to the population and economy.”

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