HHLA unveils private 5G network

Developed in partnership with Deutsche Telekom and Ericsson as part of the PROCON-5G project, the network has been operational across more than one square kilometre of the terminal since the end of May 2026.

The dedicated system operates independently of the public mobile network using locally allocated spectrum, ensuring secure and reliable communications for critical port operations.

“With the 5G campus network, we now have a high-performance and stable wireless infrastructure on which we can test new applications under realistic conditions and put them into operation straight away,” said Michael Albers, HHLA project manager.

“At the same time, we can develop and trial solutions with our partners under actual conditions here at our terminal. This is an important step for us in our progress towards the networking and automation of CTA.

The network has been tailored to the needs of one of Europe’s most highly automated container terminals, connecting autonomous vehicles, sensors, mobile devices and IT systems in real time.

Built on Ericsson’s Private 5G Campus platform, it is designed to deliver stable, high-capacity communications while remaining flexible enough to support future applications and terminal expansion.

“The 5G campus network at Container Terminal Altenwerder marks an important step forward in the digitalisation of port logistics in collaboration with HHLA,” said Klaus Werner, director of business customers at Telekom Deutschland.

“The solution demonstrates how modern mobile communications technology makes complex processes more efficient, transparent and flexible.”

Additional partners included Ericsson, Zentrum für Digitale Entwicklung, Lufthansa Industry Solutions and Hamburg Port Consulting. PROCON-5G is funded through Germany’s ‘Digital Testing Grounds in Ports’ programme, an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Transport aimed at boosting digital infrastructure and innovation across the country’s ports.