As 5G becomes increasingly vital to military operations, this integration provides fast, secure, and resilient communication solutions for defence forces. The technology ensures that crucial information is delivered seamlessly, enhancing situational awareness and supporting tactical missions.
John Clark, Senior Vice President of Lockheed Martin Technology & Strategic Innovation, highlighted the importance of advanced communication networks for national security. He stated that partnerships like this ensure data flows securely across military operations, improving mission success and deterrence capabilities.
Nokia’s President of Mobile Networks, Tommi Uitto, emphasised the flexibility and security of the company’s 5G solutions. He explained that their technology enhances military decision-making, optimises efficiency, and supports interoperability with other defence communication systems.
During recent demonstrations, Lockheed Martin successfully integrated Nokia’s 5G solutions into its 5G.MIL Unified Network Solutions ecosystem. These tests also confirmed interoperability with Verizon’s network management solutions, ensuring smooth integration with existing military communication systems.
By adopting open systems architecture and commercial standards, the integration allows for the rapid deployment of new technologies without the risk of vendor lock-in. This flexibility ensures that military forces can continuously upgrade their communication capabilities without being tied to a single supplier.
Initial testing was conducted at Verizon’s Boston Innovation Center and Lockheed Martin’s Valley Forge laboratory in Pennsylvania. The final systems integration and demonstration took place at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas.
One of the key achievements of the demonstration was the ability for users to switch between commercial 5G and tactical military waveforms while maintaining uninterrupted connectivity. This capability enhances security by reducing the risk of detection, jamming, and cyber threats.
The partnership will continue to develop and refine 5G-based military communications, including further testing at Lockheed Martin’s 5G.MIL Experimental Network site in Orlando, Florida. This will expand the capabilities of hybrid networks, improving secure communication between public and private sectors.
With 5G’s high-speed, low-latency, and secure connectivity, military personnel will gain real-time data access and improved decision-making capabilities.
