Interoperable Communications
Strengthening Missouri’s public safety through better communications
The capability to communicate across jurisdictional and discipline lines (interoperability of communications) is one of the top priorities of Missouri’s homeland security program. Ensuring that neighboring jurisdictions and multiple disciplines can communicate with each other leads to better emergency and disaster response and ultimately makes for safer communities.
Missouri is currently constructing a statewide public safety interoperable communications system, known as the Missouri Statewide Interoperability Network (MOSWIN). MOSWIN is a network of communications towers, base stations and communications software. The project will build the infrastructure that will provide interoperable communications throughout the state to both state public safety agencies and any local jurisdictions that wish to use the system for their interoperable communications. The system will also meet a Federal Communications Commission mandate that all public safety agencies in the U.S. operate only in a “narrowband” mode after January 1, 2013.
The Statewide Interoperability Network will serve two primary functions:
- Providing internal communications capabilities for state agencies, including the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Department of Natural Resources and State Emergency Management Agency.
- Providing a statewide interoperability platform and access for local agencies to achieve interoperable communications with local, state, regional and federal agencies.
The network will operate five channels per site in the “trunked” radio mode and will utilize predominantly VHF High Band public safety spectrum (150 MHz) consisting of 71 radio sites statewide. The Missouri Department of Public Safety and the Office of Administration-Facilities Management Design and Construction (FMDC) are jointly developing the network. Completion of the network is scheduled for Jan. 1, 2013.
Questions about the Statewide Interoperability Network should be directed to Missouri Interoperability Program Manager Stephen Devine at (573) 522-2382 or Stephen.devine@dps.mo.gov.