Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT)
A collection of the government’s ACT publications, setting out how it's supporting the delivery of the UK’s ACT ambitions.
Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT) are a priority technology area in the UK’s Digital and Technologies Sector Plan. They include technologies such as 5G, future 6G networks, non-terrestrial networks and advanced optical networks, which support economic growth, public services, productivity and national security.
This collection brings together the government’s past and upcoming ACT publications and sets out how the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is supporting the UK’s ACT ambitions.
ACT strategy and government priorities
This group includes government strategies, policy statements and speeches that explain how advanced connectivity technologies can support economic growth, improve digital infrastructure and strengthen the UK’s technology sector.
Research, innovation and real-world deployment: Evaluations and case studies
This group includes evaluations and case studies from government-funded projects and programmes that have supported the development, testing and deployment of advanced connectivity technologies in real-world settings.
DCMS is working with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to fund research and development in advanced connectivity technologies across the UK and internationally. Running from 2026 to 2030, the programme supports innovation at every stage, from academic research and early-stage companies to industrial R&D and business growth.
More information is available on the Business Connect ACT sector page. Details of current funding opportunities are published through UKRI’s Innovation Funding Service.
Secure, resilient and diverse supply chains
This group includes evidence, recommendations and government action to improve the security, resilience and competitiveness of UK telecoms networks. It focuses on strengthening the technologies and suppliers that support the UK’s digital infrastructure and reducing risks to network security and reliability.
International partnerships and technology cooperation
This group includes international agreements, partnerships and shared principles that support collaboration on advanced connectivity technologies. It covers work with international partners to advance research and innovation, promote common approaches, and support the responsible development of emerging technologies.