Telefónica has been chosen by the Ministry of Defence to provide the communications network for a new military testing centre in Slovakia.
The Controlled Experimentation Centre, where NATO-backed trials of 5G technology will take place, will give military personnel the chance to test new technologies in realistic conditions, including AI, extended reality, secure communications, drones and systems designed to counter hostile drones.
Under the contract, Telefónica will design, install and maintain a private 5G network at the site. Meanwhie, the telecoms giant will also supply a command-and-control system, rugged mobile phones, tablets, 5G SIM cards and other equipment, as well as, supporting military exercises and allowing new technologies to be tested in the field.
Telefónica will work alongside Atika, Nokia, XRF and Zebra Technologies to deliver the project. Additionally, Nokia will provide the 5G radio equipment, XRF the command-and-control systems and Zebra Technologies the mobile devices.
Its work will also cover installation, system testing, security checks and staff training. Once the centre is up and running, Telefónica will provide technical support and maintenance for three years, including software and technology upgrades.
Telefónica España, Director of Defence and Security, Javier López Gutierrez, said: “The launch of this Controlled Experimentation Centre is highly significant as it will enable us to explore the full potential of 5G technologies and their evolution towards future generations of mobile technology (xG) in real-world defence scenarios.
“This project will enable us to deliver more and better services by validating new digital capabilities that will accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions by the military, help improve effectiveness, security and interoperability in this field, and strengthen national sovereignty through a key initiative for the defence sector.”
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