NSW is spending $7.7 million upgrading internet and satellite connections for emergency service volunteers.

Portable kits will give small teams in the field access to internet, phone and radio services, while large trailers will support more than 100 users.

Eight of the kits will be allocated to State Emergency Service drone operators, allowing them to securely transmit live vision from the scene of an incident.

NSW SES deputy commissioner Damien Johnston says reliable communications are critical during disasters.

“When traditional networks fail, our teams must remain connected,” he said. “These upgrades improve situational awareness, co-ordination and the safety of our members and the communities they serve.”

Three specialised forward command vehicles will support communication and co-ordination, accessing locations larger mobile command centres cannot reach.

Five new trailers will provide high-capacity internet access, and 230 SES vehicles will receive high-speed internet to improve access to live information.

Satellite technology will also be installed across the SES fleet to allow tracking and real-time monitoring during flood rescues and on-water operations.

“This investment is about giving our SES volunteers modern, reliable communication tools to do their job effectively,” state Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib said.

“As we prepare for the summer, we know our first responders will be called out to a wide range of incidents and this new technology will improve interoperability across our emergency services.”