The U.S. military is looking into the future of 5G and next-generation broadband networks to bolster its defense operations, Axellio CEO Scott Aken said in a podcast that aired Tuesday.
In an interview with Telecom Reseller, Aken discussed the potential of 5G technology to advance DoD operations across multiple domains, from supply chain to surveillance and preventive maintenance.
He noted that the agency has created a task force focused on “Future G” to explore the use of 5G, 6G and upcoming broadband networks in the military.
Compared to 3G and 4G, Aken explained that fifth-generation wireless networks “add another layer of security” in defense IT systems, and their potential to be 100 times faster than LTE could help the military transmit large amounts of data, such as high resolutions Video Surveillance. Rapid interconnectivity and rapid response will also support unmanned innovation.
Aken lists battery life protection as one of the key applications of new mobile networks on the battlefield.
“5G promises longer battery life for base stations and user equipment, allowing all of these things to be brought to the battlefield without soldiers having to carry 60 pounds of batteries,” said Axellio CEO.
When asked about 5G’s weaknesses, Aken said the advantages of being able to use 5G across a wider range of devices and applications also provide a “larger attack surface.”
He added that vendors and technology must work together “on an unprecedented scale” to mitigate risks to 5G technology.
Colorado-based Axellio developed the PacketXpress Network Visibility Center to provide 100 Gbps Internet Protocol packet capture and long-term storage, as well as up to 200 Gbps simultaneous read and write access to all data.