U.S. Military Monitoring 5G Developments

The stuttering US deployment of 5G wireless telecommunications – more powerful than elsewhere in the world and using frequencies with less buffer from those used by commercial aircraft altimeters, has created consternation among airlines. Robert W. Moorman explored the issue, the current truce, and training implications concerning the civil aviation market, but what about on the defence side?

The Office of the Secretary of Defense, DoD Spokesman Russ Goemaere, provided MS&T with some insight into its thinking.

MS&T: Is the US military concerned about the pending rollout of 5G? If so, what are your specific concerns, as it relates to aircraft?

DoD: The DoD continues to work very closely with our FAA counterparts on this issue. All DoD Services issued bulletins to the field/fleet, making aircrews aware of the potential for interference and establishing a mechanism to report instances of interference. FAA NOTAMs for civil airfield also apply to military aircraft. The DoD has not issued any NOTAMS on instrument landings at military bases in 5G deployment areas.

MS&T: Is the US military switching from 4G to 5G?

DoD: It is a Congressional mandate and DoD’s strategy to accelerate the adoption of 5G and NextG technologies due to the improved security and increased capabilities (capacity, volume, and latency) provided. In many military use cases, this entails adoption of new wireless connectivity and features, not just a transition from one generation (4G) to the next (5G). Therefore, the DoD switch from 4G to 5G and NextG is more than a mere transition of user equipment (handsets) and the supporting infrastructure.

MS&T: Are aircraft-related personnel, pilots, air traffic controllers, and aircraft maintenance technicians being trained/educated on the benefits and concerns around 5G?

DoD: The DoD and FAA take safety of flight issues seriously and have worked closely to keep service safety organizations apprised of FAA advisories, directives, and policies with regard to 5G implementation within national airspace. All DoD Services issued bulletins to the field/fleet, making aircrews aware of the potential for interference and establishing a mechanism to report instances of interference.

MS&T: Are NORAD and US Space Command switching to 5G?

DoD: The Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E)) is working with all Services and major Commands on the introduction and adoption of 5G technologies. Each represent specific requirements and technology adoption roadmaps.