The Department of Defense released its fourth and final request for prototype proposals for 5G technology development on April 1, according to a news release from the National Spectrum Consortium.

In the request for the next-generation network, the DoD asks for industry input on a three-pronged 5G prototype project at Hill Air Force Base and Utah Test and Training Range, both in Utah. Like previous solicitations, the request is divided into three categories: the 5G network itself, enhancements to the network, and applications for a deployable spectrum-coexistence and -sharing system.

Here are the projects that the DoD wants, as described by the consortium:

  • 5G prototype test bed to design, construct and operate a localized, private, full-scale 5G mobile cellular network to evaluate the impact of the 5G network on airborne radio systems.
  • 5G prototype enhancements specifically to improve dynamic spectrum-sharing and spectrum coexistence capabilities.
  • 5G prototype applications to design, construct and deploy a spectrum coexistence and sharing (SCS) system to identify and demonstrate deployable SCS.

“This effort will demonstrate mid-band spectrum sharing critical to our national 5G plan. Sharing technology can bring spectrum to market while protecting and enhancing future military capabilities,” said Joseph Dyer, the National Spectrum Consortium’s chief strategy officer and a retired vice admiral. “We strongly encourage our members to collaborate and respond to these important RPPs to support innovation and make sure that the United States remains a global technology leader on 5G.”

The release follows a March 12 RPP for development of smart warehouses using 5G technology at the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany, Georgia.

Andrew Eversden covers all things defense technology for C4ISRNET. He previously reported on federal IT and cybersecurity for Federal Times and Fifth Domain, and worked as a congressional reporting fellow for the Texas Tribune. He was also a Washington intern for the Durango Herald. Andrew is a graduate of American University.

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