The Western Australian Police Force will be the world’s first law enforcement agency to integrate low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite technology within its communication network.
This capability will give WA Police access to high-speed internet anywhere in the state and deliver metropolitan equivalent police communications to regional Western Australia.
The $8.5 million upgrade will also enable police operating in remote locations to send and receive critical information as well as access automatic plate recognition data and real-time emergency alerts.
Officers will be able to livestream body-worn and vehicle dashboard camera footage to the Perth-based State Operations Command Centre, as well as aircraft and security camera vision.
The WA Government has said that a recent 12-week trial highlighted the benefits for law enforcement in utilising in-orbit spacecraft communication networks, allowing officers working from isolated police stations in Kintore, Balgo, Burringurrah, Kalumburu and Jigalong to benefit from access to high-speed internet.
The satellite technology, which was also tested by the Water Police, will be accessible from 550 WA Police vehicles, and around 130 regional stations, benefiting day-to-day patrols as well as specialist teams such as the Regional Operations Group, Tactical Response Group and Regional Enforcement Unit.
“The WA Police Force operates in one of the largest geographical police districts in the world and it’s about to have complete communication coverage. This high-tech upgrade will boost the ability of police to solve crimes and co-ordinate large-scale emergency responses like remote searches for missing people,” Police Minister Paul Papalia said.
He added: “Being able to livestream vehicle dashcam and body-worn camera vision will revolutionise the way our police operate in remote areas.
“It will improve situational awareness for officers on the frontline, helping them to make informed decisions during emergency situations.”
