EchoStar Corporation’s subsidiary, Hughes Network Systems, secured a $6.5 million contract to deploy a 5G Open Radio Access Network (ORAN) prototype at Fort Bliss, Texas. The project will enable the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to test RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) technology, which enhances network performance through dynamic software applications. The temporary network will transition to support Hughes’ commercial services for military and civilian users around Fort Bliss. The initiative is a joint effort involving the U.S. Army, the DoD Chief Information Officer, and the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
Hughes, the prime contractor, will integrate the RIC into the test network, alongside ORAN infrastructure and 5G spectrum provided by Boost Mobile, another EchoStar entity. The RIC will support testing for key military use cases, including spectrum agility at 5G control nodes. This capability aims to enhance mobile command post communications by enabling rapid spectrum reallocation, a critical function in dynamic operational environments.
The Fort Bliss project aligns with the National Defense Authorization Act for FY 2024, advancing the DoD’s diversification of its supply chain and adoption of vendor-agnostic solutions. Additionally, the initiative builds on Hughes’ successful deployment of 5G ORAN technology at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in 2023. That installation improved real-time communications for maintenance operations, underscoring the potential of ORAN technologies for defense applications.
Key Points:
• Contract Value: $6.5 million.
• Technology: 5G ORAN with RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC).
• Primary Use Case: Spectrum agility at the 5G control node.
• Location: Fort Bliss, Texas (El Paso).
• Key Partners: U.S. Army, DoD CIO, OUSD(R&E).
• Timeline: Supports FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act.
• Expansion Potential: Paves way for future RIC applications and installations.
“This contract award is an important step forward for the U.S. Department of Defense’s efforts to develop next-generation communications networks that can empower innovative applications,” said Dan Rasmussen, senior vice president, North American Enterprise, Hughes Network Systems.
