Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA)’s Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA) is receiving funding from the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) to establish a 5G network as part of the “DigiTest” initiative.
The aim of this pilot project is to provide a digital testing environment on the HHLA terminal where novel application scenarios may be tested. The usage of this new communication technology aims to improve the efficiency of logistical procedures.
As part of the PROCON-5G (Port Remote Operations and Container Network with 5G) pilot project, a private 5G mobile network in the form of a digital testing ground will be established at the CTA site.
The network is distinguished by its excellent operating performance and reliability, resulting in a dependable, adaptable communications infrastructure for port logistics.
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The project has a financial budget of approximately €2.3 million ($2.5 million) and will last until mid-2026. The network will be put up progressively over the next few months.
After the setup phase is completed, the network will be utilised to test various application scenarios.
Among other things, the aim is to see how the 5G network may help the organisation with greater automation of its equipment and mobile maintenance.
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The insights will be used not just to improve CTA’s development, but also by other firms involved in port logistics.
Michael Albers, HHLA Project Manager, said: “By setting up a 5G site network at Container Terminal Altenwerder, we are laying the foundation for making our digitalised processes even more efficient and reliable.
“The 5G network is also a major prerequisite for the further automation and digitalisation of our processes. At the same time, we are delighted to open CTA up as a testing ground for 5G innovations and thus give other companies the opportunity to test this pioneering technology.”
In December 2024, HHLA’s CTA received three new highly automated container gantry cranes.
