Insights and Key Takeaways from Critical Communications World 2026

Connecting with the future of mission-critical communications

I just had the opportunity to spend two inspiring days at Critical Communications World 2026 at ExCeL London, and the energy throughout the event was truly remarkable.

From the moment the doors opened, it was clear that this year’s CCW was bringing together the very best minds, innovators, and technology leaders from across the mission-critical communications ecosystem. Building on the momentum of previous years, including more than 5,200 attendees from 81 nations in the previous edition, this year’s event demonstrated the continued growth and importance of this industry.

Over two days, I had the opportunity to meet with customers, partners, and industry experts, exchange ideas, and discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of critical communications.

Several key themes stood out.

Strengthening 450 MHz network assurance

One of the most valuable discussions during the event focused on 450 MHz networks and how we can further strengthen our collaboration with partners to deliver deeper network service assurance.

As 450 MHz networks increasingly become a foundation for critical operations, the need for reliable, measurable, and verifiable coverage is more important than ever. Operators need confidence that their networks will perform when they are needed most, and that requires accurate visibility into network performance.

Ensuring resilient mission-critical broadband rollouts

The transition toward mission-critical broadband networks is accelerating, but successful rollouts require more than connectivity alone.

Assurance is at the heart of resilience. Having precise, granular data available enables operators to identify issues quickly, troubleshoot effectively, and maintain the level of reliability that mission-critical services demand.

A network that simply works is not enough. The goal is to build networks that operators can trust, networks that are observable, measurable, and prepared for the most demanding situations.

Optimizing the future of Non-Terrestrial Networks

Satellite communications and Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) were also major topics at CCW. A highlight was Julian Divett’s presentation, which demonstrated how complex space-to-ground networks require accurate, real-time information to support effective decision-making and optimization.

As NTN becomes an increasingly important part of the critical communications landscape, the ability to monitor, analyze, and optimize these networks will be essential.

Measurement is the foundation of optimization

At Creanord, our philosophy has always been simple: you cannot optimize what you cannot measure.

The critical communications industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies, new architectures, and new expectations for reliability. Our role is to help operators gain the precise insights they need to ensure outstanding service assurance and deliver dependable communications when it matters most.

CCW 2026 was a fantastic opportunity to connect with so many people who are shaping the future of public safety and critical infrastructure. I want to thank everyone who shared their ideas, challenges, and vision with us.

The conversations continue, and so does the work of building more resilient, measurable, and mission-critical networks.

Author

Claus Still, CEO at Creanord