The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is developing a miniaturized cellular system prototype designed to enable warfighters and first responders to stay connected in remote areas and challenging conditions.
The Laurel, Maryland-based research center said Tuesday it is collaborating with other organizations through the Standalone On-the-Move Advanced Relay, or SOAR, program to develop a 5G cellular system that can be transported by a drone across 100 square miles.
What Is the Standalone On-the-Move Advanced Relay Program?
The SOAR initiative was launched by the Department of Defense in response to calls made by Congress for a tactical 5G system that will enable the U.S. military to utilize drones and other devices with more affordable radios. The program is currently working on integrating cellular modems into military radios.
Compared to current tactical radios, cellular modems are more economical while cellular networks exhibit superior bandwidth efficiency. Furthermore, 5G technology broadens the spectrum and frequencies available to the DOD. In addition, the DOD supports the shift to a cellular system to enable forces dispersed in the Indo-Pacific Command region to communicate locally and with other DOD networks.
The SOAR program aims to develop a 5G cellular system that weighs below 10 pounds and can “fit in half a shoebox” so it can be carried by Group 2 uncrewed aerial systems.
APL is partnering with NxGenComm to develop the system using the latter’s advanced commercial 5G baseband system and enhancing it with radio-frequency capabilities suited for harsh environments.
With the first prototype of the miniaturized 5G cellular infrastructure currently being demonstrated to the Army and Marine Corps, the program intends to enhance its flexibility and resilience to enable it to operate in tactical environments.
Join the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 5G Summit on Feb. 27 to learn more about how 5G and FutureG will enhance national security and public safety. Register here!
