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The global defence prime and the telecommunications giant have been tasked with jointly developing new 5G technologies.
Lockheed Martin and Verizon have signed an agreement to collaborate on 5G.MIL technologies designed to provide ultra-secure, reliable connections for US Department of Defense systems.
The firms are expected to integrate high-tech platforms into a cohesive network across air, land, sea, space and cyber domains.
The deal also establishes a joint research and development lab framework to prototype, demonstrate and test 5G.MIL technologies.
"Verizon is at the cutting edge when it comes to building out reliable, high performance 5G Ultra Wideband networks with mobile edge computing capabilities," Kyle Malady, chief technology officer at Verizon said.
"Our work with Lockheed Martin will help enable the creation of new and innovative products and technologies, helping DOD leaders achieve the goals laid out in their 5G strategy."
Rod Makoske, chief engineer and senior vice-president of engineering and technology at Lockheed Martin said the defence contractor would leverage its understanding of DOD mission requirements while drawing on Verizon’s wireless expertise to support the Joint All-Domain Operations battlespace.
"Leveraging commercial 5G technologies with military-grade enhancements will let customers field, scale and deploy this technology faster and in more operational environments,” Makoske added.
Lockheed Martin’s 5G.MIL program is a "network of networks", built to integrate military tactical, strategic and enterprise networks, while also harnessing existing telecommunication infrastructure technology.
5G.MIL is expected to enhance interoperability between 5G networks, NextG networks and operational DOD networks.
Lockheed Martin and Verizon recently conducted a joint demonstration using a Verizon private 5G network installed at Lockheed Martin Space’s 5G Test Range in Colorado.
The network was connected to a Lockheed Martin open mission system processor running mission applications at the Skunk Works® Integration Facility and Test Center in Texas.
According to the firms, the initial tests demonstrated interoperability between Lockheed Martin open tactical gateway solutions and Verizon’s On Site 5G network technology.
