Future Network Services takes a major step forward: €142 million for Phase 2
The Future Network Services (FNS) consortium of companies and knowledge institutions is taking the next step in the development of 6G network technology for smarter, more economical, and faster data transfer. With the allocation of €142 million from the National Growth Fund by the cabinet, the consortium can now start working on phase 2 of the FNS program. In this phase, the focus will be on converting knowledge into concrete 6G technology and products and services based on it. By investing now, the Netherlands, together with Europe, is strengthening its strategic autonomy and competitiveness.
Backbone of the future digital economy
6G transmits data faster and connects more devices compared to 5G. New functions are also being added in the field of sensing. For example, radio signals can be used to detect objects via their reflections, in a manner similar to radar. This opens up new opportunities for companies in transport and logistics. Furthermore, 6G will better integrate mobile networks on the ground with satellite communications. The reliability, predictability, and resilience of 6G networks will be structurally higher, enabling applications such as wireless factories and real-time control of energy grids.
Tjark Tjin-A-Tsoi, CEO of TNO:
“With this investment in 6G, TNO is working with more than 60 companies and knowledge institutions to build the backbone of our future digital economy. By taking control of this vital infrastructure ourselves, we are increasing our strategic relevance and making our country less dependent on foreign parties.”
Prototypes developed and tested in practice
In the first phase of the FNS program, several prototypes of 6G components were developed. For example, the team in Eindhoven realized a 4.6-kilometer wireless optical connection with a world record speed of 5.7 terabits per second. NXP developed the first Wi-Int chips: a new international standard that works like a wireless USB connection. The partners also built Oakestra, an AI-driven tool for automatically controlling mobile networks. Concrete applications were also tested in practice: drone flights for urgent goods, a wireless factory where machines communicate without wiring, medical equipment linked in an operating room, and smart traffic detection at an intersection in Rotterdam. The partners also established the National 6G Testbed: an infrastructure with five regional test locations in Groningen, Amersfoort, The Hague, Delft, and Eindhoven where companies can test their innovations with 6G.
Minister Heleen Herbert of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy:
“The next generation of mobile networks is essential for tomorrow's economy. With this contribution from the National Growth Fund, we are giving a powerful boost to the development of 6G in the Netherlands. In this way, we are strengthening cooperation between companies and knowledge institutions, stimulating new business activity, and building a strong position in international value chains.”
Focus on earning capacity
In FNS phase 2, the partners will use the knowledge developed in the program to create economic value. More than 100 SMEs have already signed up to participate in phase 2 with pilots within the National 6G Testbed. These companies can develop and test their innovations with wireless technology there. A new development is that innovation and value creation will be managed by the 6G Business Board, which includes representatives from the participating companies. Young, fast-growing companies will receive extra support in finding financing. In addition, 15 new companies will join the consortium. Furthermore, cooperation with other European countries in the field of 6G will be intensified, particularly with Finland, Sweden, and Germany, and outside Europe with Japan and Taiwan. Another concrete ambitious goal is to develop the first fully wireless factory in the Netherlands that will become the standard for the global manufacturing industry.