Scotland's eight fire and rescue services have become the first in the UK to begin operating Airwave's digital communication system, which is due to be extended to all of Britain's fire and rescue services over the coming months.

It replaces a long-established but much more limited system, and is said to offer improved coverage, security and resilience – plus interoperability with those other organisations such as the police and ambulance services that have also adopted Airwave.

The Airwave system, which is known within the sector as Firelink, is based on TETRA technology, and has reportedly been delivered to around 99 per cent of the 7,800 fire and rescue service vehicles nationwide. It has been installed in over 7,700 vehicles and is so far in use among 55 fire and rescue services throughout Britain.

Fergus Ewing, Scotland's Minister for Community Safety, said: 'Firelink represents a significant commitment to the safety and security of Scotland's communities. Scotland's fire and rescue services now have the most advanced communication system in the UK.'