6G Test Centre

Collaboration with the Finnish Air Force

The University of Oulu established its first professorship in telecommunications technology in 1985, and wireless telecommunications research began at the Faculty of Technology in 1986. From the start, the defence sector has been a key focus, shaping advancements in secure and resilient communication technologies.

The Centre for Wireless Communications established

The Centre for Wireless Communications (CWC) has driven mobile research since 1995.

Today, CWC trains world-class graduates, conducts world-renowned research, and creates new technology in cooperation with the most significant R&D organisations and industries in the field of wireless communications.

5G Test Network established

Launched in May 2015 as a restricted VTT-led initiative, the 5G Test Network (5GTN) opened as a public test environment at the University of Oulu in June. A joint effort between the University of Oulu, VTT, and industry partners, 5GTN offers a cutting-edge platform for real-time testing of 5G technologies, components, and services across its two closely connected sites, meeting the most demanding requirements for advanced 5G trials.

6G Flagship programme kicks off

Launched in 2018, 6G Flagship is the world’s first 6G research programme. It is a key part of Finland’s national research spearhead initiative until 2026.

6G Flagship’s mission is to develop the essential technologies, tools, and infrastructure for a 6G Test Network by 2028. By advancing selected verticals, it aims to accelerate societal digitisation while reinforcing its position as a global vision leader and a trusted research partner in 6G innovation.

Operator grade live 5G micro-operator network​

In May 2019, the University of Oulu moved its 5G test network from the lab to the rooftop, marking the start of open 5G connectivity. Engineers integrated a 5G base station using standardised architecture. The first 5G data connection with test devices followed, bringing the technology closer to real-world use.

The network equipment, supplied by Nokia, was integrated through close collaboration between Nokia and university teams. By the end of the year, commercial terminals became available.

FUWIRI​ Selection to AoF FIRI roadmap

In 2020, the Finnish Research Infrastructure Committee (FIRI) recognised Future Wireless Research Infrastructure (FUWIRI) as one of 29 key research infrastructures to receive roadmap status. Included in Finland’s 2021–2024 national research infrastructure roadmap, FUWIRI was identified as a strategically important asset for advancing research, development, and innovation over the next 10–15 years.

Future Wireless Research Infrastructure established

The future will be built on seamless, high-capacity wireless connectivity, enabling a truly data-driven society. FUWIRI is Finland’s national research infrastructure for 6G and beyond, supporting this vision.

FUWIRI continues to evolve, integrating 5G long-term evolution, open-RAN (O-RAN) technology, and foundational capabilities for 6G experimental research. It also incorporates next-generation AI/ML technologies to shape the networks of the future. These advancements will transform FUWIRI into a unified research, testing, and experimentation platform for 5G, 6G, and even 7G—meeting the growing demands of digitalisation and adapting to the needs of the 2040s.

6G Test Centre is established

Following Finland’s accession to NATO on April 4th, 2023, the Ministry of Defense submitted Finland’s proposal to DIANA’s Board of Directors in July 2023. After thorough consideration, the board approved the proposal for establishing an accelerator and two testing centres in Finland.

The testing facilities were set up at the University of Oulu and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland’s Otaniemi location. Otaniemi centre’s focus is cyber-secure communications, quantum, and space technologies, while the University of Oulu test centre focuses on testing 6G network technologies.