Tyndall AFB will be first to get 5G

AT&T will start bringing fifth-generation (5G) wireless networking to Tyndall AFB, Fla., in early 2020, according to a Nov. 21 company media release. “AT&T is comprehensively rebuilding and modernizing communications infrastructure and capabilities across Tyndall,” the release states. “It is providing future-forward networking capabilities … to support augmented and virtual reality … and a broad array of innovative technologies.” Tyndall’s infrastructure was basically destroyed by Hurricane Michael in October 2018. AT&T was awarded a $23.6M sole-source contract Sept. 30 – the last day of FY 2019. AT&T will progress through a “rolling plan” based on how quickly the Air Force and other vendors are able to rebuild Tyndall. The AF is also planning to place 5G at bases on a regional basis. AT&T spokesman Bob Hallman declined to say when work would begin in 2020. The Defense Department is launching its own effort at select facilities to explore the possibilities of next-generation wireless. AT&T said it will also provide “FirstNet,” a nationwide public safety communications platform, for disaster-response operations at Tyndall. (Source: AF Magazine 11/22/19) http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pages/2019/November%202019/ATT-Announces-Start-of-5G-Network-Rollout-at-Tyndall-AFB.aspx