DoD selects Hughes' solution for 5G experimentation
Hughes Network Systems' are an established provider of military communications to the US Armed Forces. (Photo: Hughes Network Systems)
The US DoD has awarded Hughes Network Systems a contract valued at $18 million to install its standalone 5G network at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington.
The Hughes 5G network will utilise spectrum from DISH Wireless, which is capable of providing appropriate mmWave spectrum.
This work is part of an ongoing DoD 5G experimentation to establish seven Tranche 2 sites for 5G testing, following the five Tranche 1 sites established last year.
Joseph Evans, principal director for 5G within the office of the undersecretary for research and engineering at the DoD said the seven bases are Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton in California, Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia, Joint Base San Antonio, National Training Center, Fort Hood and at Tinker Air Force Base.
This award is part of the efforts led by Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam.
The deployment, which began in September 2021, prioritises security and leverages Zero Trust Architecture.
More from Defence Notes
-
How the Pentagon will use private capital to fund critical capabilities
The DoD has changed its structures and is been increasing efforts to facilitate access to loans by companies interested in working with artificial intelligence, advanced materials and semiconductors, biotechnology and quantum science.
-
HAL is major beneficiary of latest Indian procurement approvals
India has approved millions of dollars in new military purchases, most of which will go to public sector companies.
-
Why cybersecurity must be a priority for Latin American militaries
The main obstacles to overcoming risks in the region are a lack of a strong cybersecurity culture and inadequate funds to invest in this domain given a widespread Chinese presence in the region.
-
MBDA navigates supply chain pressures amidst increased demand for armaments
MBDA is adapting to supply chain pressures as the Russian invasion of Ukraine leads to increased demand for armaments.
-
Why UK defence still faces an uncertain future and difficult decisions
Despite the additional funding promised this week, the UK armed forces still look set to face cutbacks, and maintaining international commitments to AUKUS and GCAP may limit the options for other programmes.
-
What's the deal with defence procurement? (podcast)
This week on the Shephard Defence Podcast, senior naval reporter Harry Lye and military training & simulation reporter Norbert Neumann chat with Professor John Louth.