Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has recently made significant advancements in the realm of telecommunications by establishing a private 5G network aimed at enhancing security, increasing operational efficiency, and minimizing reliance on third-party mobile network providers. The new 5G infrastructure represents a pivotal shift for SwRI, providing a substantial boost to various advanced projects in a multitude of fields. As military operations increasingly rely on seamless communication, this innovative network is designed to support those operations, particularly in high-risk environments characterized by limited connectivity.
The 5G network serves as a robust research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) platform, catering to a wide array of 5G-related advancements, including but not limited to cybersecurity innovations, drone technology enhancements, edge computing initiatives, and extensive antenna development and testing. Military program managers, meeting at SwRI, received enlightening briefings about the role of the private 5G network in tactical edge operations. These operations often occur in volatile areas, where maintaining reliable communications can prove challenging, thus necessitating a secure and dependable infrastructure in the field.
One of the main advantages of this private 5G network is its hybrid architecture, which integrates a fixed campus testbed with a portable tower designed for field deployments. This allows for the efficient execution of the complete RDT&E lifecycle for emerging technologies, enabling rapid testing and integration of new systems under real-world conditions. Jody Little, a director at SwRI’s Defense and Intelligence Solutions Division, emphasized the critical importance of reliable communication systems during military operations and other emergency scenarios, such as natural disasters or oilfield work, where connectivity may be compromised.
Advanced telecommunications technology is rapidly evolving, and the fifth generation of mobile technology, known as 5G, stands at the forefront of this transformation. Unlike its predecessors, 5G enables real-time processing of vast quantities of data, paving the way for innovative applications that were previously unfeasible. The deployment of this cutting-edge infrastructure is significantly expedited by the system’s ability to utilize portable base stations, making it a highly flexible solution which can be rapidly set up in diverse locations without the extensive requirements of traditional fiber optic cabling.
Charles Almquist, an integral member of the network development team at SwRI, detailed the advantages of the private 5G network over existing fiber optic solutions. The time efficiency of setup and takedown associated with this technology cannot be overstated. While establishing fiber optic cables can take days, the mobile 5G system can be implemented and operational within just hours. This operational efficiency underscores the viability of private mobile networks in varying environments, particularly in emergency response scenarios where time is of the essence.
Currently, the SwRI network operates on the Citizens Broadband Radio Service, an unlicensed spectrum approved by the Federal Communications Commission for private network deployment. This critical regulatory approval supports the network’s rapid establishment and function in both static and dynamic deployments. The ongoing developments at SwRI’s private 5G network will extend beyond the traditional 5G technology, with plans to integrate sixth-generation (6G) capabilities that will incorporate satellite communication and artificial intelligence components to further enhance operational effectiveness.
The project was fueled by SwRI’s Internal Research and Development program, which is dedicated to nurturing innovative concepts that advance technology for both governmental and industrial applications. Initial operating capability for the network was achieved in August 2025, marking a significant milestone in SwRI’s ongoing commitment to pioneering cutting-edge technology solutions that meet the evolving needs of their diverse client base.
As military and civilian sectors increasingly depend on secure, high-speed communication, the impact of SwRI’s private 5G network cannot be underestimated. With capabilities that enhance strategic communications and provide essential connectivity in challenging environments, this initiative positions SwRI as a leader in next-generation telecommunications research. The network’s development represents not only a technical achievement but also a visionary commitment to securing a robust communication infrastructure that addresses the unique challenges faced by military and civilian operators alike.
Looking to the future, it is clear that the reliance on public networks will diminish as secure, private alternatives become more prevalent. Jody Little projects a shift toward entirely secure working environments, allowing users to operate independently of traditional fiber optics. This transformation could redefine telecommunications landscapes, ensuring that users have consistent access to communication resources regardless of their location or external factors affecting public networks.
In summary, the establishment of a private 5G network at Southwest Research Institute signifies a critical leap forward in telecommunications technology. The secure, efficient, and adaptable nature of the network is anticipated to have far-reaching implications across various fields, particularly for defense operations and emergency response efforts. As this technology continues to evolve, it is poised to play a transformative role in shaping the future of connectivity and operational capabilities in both military and civilian sectors.
Subject of Research: Deployment of a Private 5G Network for Strategic Communications
Article Title: Southwest Research Institute Launches Cutting-Edge Private 5G Network
News Publication Date: September 15, 2025
Web References: https://www.swri.org/markets/defense-security/software-advanced-electronic-warfare/rf-sensors-systems/advanced-systems?&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=eurekalert!&utm_campaign=swri-private-5g
References: None available.
Image Credits: Credit: Southwest Research Institute
Keywords
Communications, Signal processing, Cybersecurity, Military technology
