National 6G Testbed

Why was the 6G Testbed established?

Mobile networks are a key driver of the digitalisation of our society. They contribute to economic growth and competitiveness across all sectors. Through innovation and collaboration between industry, knowledge institutions and government, The Netherlands is building a strong position in the global 6G-value chain. The Future Network Services program aims to establish an international leading position for The Netherlands in 6G. This strengthens the Dutch economy and supports sustainable long-term growth.

Where can you experiment?

The current and most recent technology is known as Beyond 5G. This is an intermediate step on the road towards fully developed 6G technology. You can experiment at the following fieldlabs across The Netherlands:

• 6G Fieldlab Delft – Do IoT Fieldlab
• 6G Fieldlab Groningen – ICCS
• 6G Fieldlab The Hague – TNO
• 6G Fieldlab Amersfoort – RDI
• 6G Fieldlab Eindhoven – BDF

Use cases

From autonomous drones to remote operations, 6G can enable new applications that require reliable, low-latency and widely available connectivity. These are a few examples we are currently working on:

• Edge computing and AI
  With partner Oakestra, we are exploring how mobile users can access local edge computing resources that move with them as they travel. This reduces latency and keeps computing close to the user while helping to keep sensitive data secure.
• Drone communication
  At Unmanned Valley, we are working with TU Delft on an open-source outdoor Beyond 5G setup for drone testing. We are also exploring Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations, enabling drones to operate over greater distances. The flight corridor from Unmanned Valley towards the North Sea can create opportunities to test longer-range communication as well.
• Localisation
  Accurate localisation is key to applications for sectors such as Industry and Horticulture, where knowing the precise position of people, equipment or objects can make a real difference. At Unmanned Valley, we are exploring Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) and Joint Communication and Sensing (JCAS) using our outdoor Beyond 5G setup.
• Offshore communication
  Offshore environments present unique challenges for wireless communication. We are working with multiple partners to understand how factors such as distance, the physical environment and changing weather conditions affect connectivity offshore.
• Non-Terrestrial Networks
  Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) can extend wireless connectivity beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial networks. We are exploring how satellite communication can complement terrestrial networks and provide connectivity in remote or hard-to-reach locations. This opens up opportunities for applications such as offshore operations and remote monitoring.
• Teleoperation
  Teleoperation enables people to control machines and systems remotely, making reliable, low-latency communication essential. We have expertise in testing teleoperation applications where Beyond 5G performance can make a difference. It could also, when combined with Non-Terrestrial Networks, enable people to remotely control and maintain equipment on ships, offshore platforms or wind turbines. Even where terrestrial connectivity is limited.