The value of 5G technology for defense applications can’t be overstated. In its 2020 5G Strategy Implementation Plan, the Department of Defense (DOD) stated:
“5G … offers higher performance and additional capabilities, particularly for data-driven applications and for machine-to-machine communication. These capabilities will become the foundation for a new networked way of war… DoD must have access to a 5G defense industrial base that provides trustworthy 5G technologies.”
Let’s examine the value of 5G for military applications and how the technology fits into the DOD's evolving strategies.
5G Basics
5G is the fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and greater connectivity than previous generations. It enables high-bandwidth applications, supports massive device connections, and provides ultra-reliable communication, making it ideal for military operations.
A major advantage of 5G is its potential for covert communications. Unlike previous systems, which primarily used lower frequency bands, 5G taps into the millimeter-wave spectrum, ranging from tens of gigahertz to 7GHz-24GHz.
According to Dr. Thomas Rondeau, principal director for 5G and futureG at the Pentagon, this higher frequency range provides a distinct advantage. The increased bandwidth allows for more efficient, secure communication and greater flexibility, which is critical for dynamic, fast-paced military operations.
1. Why does the military need to own its own communication links?
Secure and reliable communications are crucial for our defense. By owning and managing their own communication networks, the military is able to prioritize mission-critical communications without depending on commercial providers or external networks. This control allows our forces to:
- Safeguard sensitive data
- Prevent adversaries from intercepting critical information
- Ensure that operations proceed without interruption
- Protect communications in hostile environments
2. How do 5G comms improve connectivity in remote or difficult-to-reach areas?
Existing infrastructure in remote theaters of operations is often limited or outdated. Traditional cellular coverage requires a dense network of cell towers to provide coverage and backhaul networks that connect those towers to the broader network, such as fiber optic cables or microwave links, both of which may be sparse or completely absent.
A mobile or highly adaptable 5G network deployment allows for reliable connections even in challenging environments for dynamic operations. Necessary network components include 5G base stations (also known as “small cells”), mobile backhaul options such as microwave links or satellite communications, and edge computing.
3. How can 5G enhance interoperability between different military branches and allies?
Effective coordination across multiple military branches and with international allies is essential for successful joint operations. 5G enables seamless communication across military branches and international allies, ensuring real-time data sharing and coordination.
With 5G’s high bandwidth, low latency, and robust connectivity, forces can synchronize actions, exchange critical data, and respond swiftly during complex, joint operations. This is especially valuable when working with allies who may use different technologies and communication protocols. By enabling interoperability, 5G bridges these gaps, allowing military forces to operate as a unified entity despite differences in hardware or software.
5G for Defense Communications and Training: Yesterday and Today
Yesterday: The Dawn of DOD’s 5G Strategy
In the civilian world, adopting emerging technologies often happens quickly. However, the same cannot be said about the DOD.
While cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and command, control, and communications (C3) advances may be transformative, our military continues to struggle with inefficient legacy communications systems. These systems often result in slow and unreliable data transfer, which limits operational effectiveness and constrains training systems by wireless limitations.
In 2020, the DOD released its 5G Strategy Implementation Plan, providing additional detail about the implementation. In that same year, DOD began testing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington; Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia; Naval Base San Diego; and Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
In one of these tests, at Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, the pilot program used 5G technology to enhance logistics operations. The focus was on implementing a smart warehouse system that utilized 5G connectivity to improve inventory management, automate supply chain processes, and increase operational efficiency. This initiative aimed to modernize logistics capabilities and streamline the distribution of supplies to military units.
Today: Real-World 5G Network Deployment
In late 2024, the DOD released its Private 5G Deployment Strategy with the following objectives:
- Ensure private 5G infrastructure aligns with each installation's unique mission(s).
- Accelerate acquisition, development, and secure deployment of 5G.
- Expand the use of an Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) ecosystem.
Early testing and the 5G deployment strategy are showing results. For example, the test at the Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Georgia resulted in the recent signing of a 42-month contract valued at $6 million for the first DOD 5G private network.
How 5G Is Revolutionizing Military Communications and Training
Current Applications of 5G in Military Communications
5G is already improving battlefield communications. A notable example is the recent installation of 5G components on surveillance towers at U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) bases in eastern Africa. Previously, poor data transmission, limited frame rates, and low resolution hindered the effectiveness of these towers, but 5G connectivity now offers robust coverage for force protection operations. Additionally, the 5G network will enhance the operational effectiveness and range of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) currently in development for use at the bases.
5G's Role in Modernizing Military Training Solutions
As each technology evolves, military human performance must keep pace; however, the evolution itself has created training challenges that require a unique solution.
The Internet of Military Things (IoMT) is an evolving concept that integrates various devices, platforms, and systems through advanced networks to create a highly connected, data-driven ecosystem.
Modern 5G networks provide the connective infrastructure to transform military training by integrating IoMT devices. 5G’s low latency and high bandwidth enable immersive training environments using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), where data from IoMT devices creates highly realistic scenarios. Additionally, IoMT devices facilitate collaborative training, enabling units to train together remotely. They also support autonomous systems that adjust scenarios in real time, helping soldiers refine their responses to dynamic battlefield conditions.
The Future of 5G
As 5G continues to revolutionize military operations, the focus is already shifting.
Future iterations of mobile networks, including 6G and futureG, aim to tap into even higher frequencies (7GHz-24GHz), offering expanded capabilities to further enhance maneuverability and operational success. As the technology continues to evolve, it will further enable the DoD's cloud strategy and support more sophisticated cloud-based applications, advanced data analytics, and AI-driven decision-making in real time.
Military Modeling, Simulation, and Training
The integration of 5G into defense technologies is poised to significantly enhance the effectiveness of military operations, both on the battlefield and in training environments.
To explore how 5G will continue to shape military communications and training, delve deeper into the pivotal role of modeling, simulation, and training technologies. Learn more about MS&T here.
