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 26 July 2008
Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS)
 
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Telecommunications - Supply, Research and Development

Telecommunications Equipment & Network Supplies


The telecommunications equipment sector is a global one with a relatively small number of large global players.

The UK is a strategically important market for the sector. This country has for many years led the way on deregulation, in pioneering innovation, and in the early and widespread adoption of new services and standards. The UK's telecom markets have developed early, quickly and deeply as a result. The science base is particularly strong and the UK's record of technology development is widely recognised.


Leading and globally active companies such as Marconi have developed in the UK and are in the top ten for R&D spend in the UK. The UK market also benefits hugely from inward investment in manufacturing and R&D from the leading overseas telecoms suppliers. Lucent and Motorola have their world headquarters for UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) in the UK in recognition of UK wireless strengths - an area where the UK is well ahead of the US. Alcatel has its key manufacturing operation for the submarine cable sector in the UK. Nokia and Siemens have significant research centres for 3G (3rd generation) mobile in the UK.


R&D


Telecommunications manufacturing is supported by a strong R&D base, which is helping the industry develop products for the next generation of telecommunications networks. Attracted by the availability of high quality research skills, a number of inward investors such as Fujitsu, NEC and Samsung are expanding their R&D activities in crucial technologies. Motorola, Nortel, Ericsson and Lucent Technologies have established Centres of Excellence in advanced technologies and significant R&D facilities, which in some cases are the largest outside their home countries. Independent R&D organisations also offer substantial expertise to support system and product design as well as planning and implementing of projects. SMEs (small and medium sized firms), universities, and spin-offs from academia to business remain a significant source of innovation and new ideas.

 

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