Motorola Solutions has strengthened its global public safety technology footprint with the opening of a new Global Research and Development Centre in Cork, Ireland, focused on mission-critical software for its land mobile radio (LMR) portfolio.
The new facility, located at Navigation Square, will develop advanced software and applications designed to improve the safety, reliability and efficiency of communications used by first responders around the world. Technology developed at the centre will support public safety agencies operating in high-risk and high-availability environments, where resilient communications are essential.
The Cork centre employs close to 200 staff across software engineering, design, development, testing, quality assurance and management roles. The team is focused on continued innovation in LMR systems, which are engineered to deliver “five-nines” availability, a reliability benchmark critical to emergency services operations.
Ireland’s Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, said the investment reflects the strength of Ireland’s technology sector and its ability to support globally significant innovation. He said the establishment of the R&D centre reinforces Ireland’s reputation as a hub for advanced engineering and problem-solving, particularly in technologies that address complex public safety challenges.
Motorola Solutions executive vice president and chief technology officer Mahesh Saptharishi said the Cork centre demonstrates the company’s ongoing commitment to mission-critical communications. He noted that modern LMR platforms now extend beyond highly resilient voice services to support artificial intelligence and advanced data applications, helping public safety agencies operate more effectively in demanding situations.
Alongside its technology focus, Motorola Solutions has embedded community engagement into its Cork operations. The local team supports education, volunteer and philanthropic initiatives and has established early-career partnerships with University College Cork and Munster Technological University. These partnerships provide students with internships, hands-on industry experience and mentorship to build practical skills and career readiness.
The company also contributes to a range of community organisations, including Darkness Into Light, Cork Arc, Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland and the Society of St Vincent de Paul.
Through the Motorola Solutions Foundation, the company’s charitable arm, further support has been directed toward education and first responder wellbeing in Ireland. Grants have included funding for STEM resources in Cork schools through the I WISH initiative, as well as support for wellness programs for first responders and their families through the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland.
The establishment of the Global R&D Centre has been supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. IDA Ireland chief executive officer Michael Lohan said the investment highlights Ireland’s stable business environment and its track record in supporting leading global technology companies.
For the security and surveillance sector, the expansion underscores the growing convergence of resilient communications, software innovation and public safety technology, with Ireland playing an increasingly important role in the global development of mission-critical systems trusted by emergency services worldwide.
