Valencia accelerates its smart port status

The IMAGINE-B5G project centred on the deployment of the 5GVLCPortLab private 5G network, coordinated by the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), providing a dedicated platform to evaluate next-generation communications for the port environment.

Forward thinking

Five pilot projects at the port demonstrated how port automation and port technology can enhance safety, maintenance and operational efficiency.

These included drone-based surveillance of restricted areas, remote operation of an unmanned surface vessel for maritime rescue and augmented reality-assisted maintenance supported by artificial intelligence.

In addition, workplace safety was monitoring using cameras, drones and automated ground vehicles and autonomous maritime security.

According to Fundación Valenciaport, the initiative supports its strategy of introducing disruptive technologies that strengthen the efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness of the wider logistics cluster while establishing the foundations for future 6G-enabled services.

The practical experience gained from deploying and managing private 5G networks is expected to support wider adoption across high-demand operational environments, including container terminals, helping advance port digitalisation throughout the port complex.

Building on the project’s completion, Fundación Valenciaport is already participating in the 5G-Valenciaport and COP-PILOT initiatives to further develop advanced port technology for transport and logistics, reinforcing innovation across future port operations.