Verizon Business has been tasked by the US Air Force to enhance 4G and 5G infrastructure at 35 Air Force bases across the country. This initiative is part of the Air Force’s ‘offer-to-lease’ (OTL) program, which aims to upgrade crucial communications infrastructure. This represents Verizon’s seventh success in eight attempts under the OTL program, which began in 2019.
Notably, a standalone 5G network will be discharged at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida. This contract spans additional bases in states including Alabama, California, Florida, and Texas. Verizon claims their ongoing efforts cover 72 bases. Their current partnership with the federal government, especially the Department of Defense, puts a spotlight on their wide-ranging 5G endeavors.
The agreement aims to enhance speeds, bandwidth, and reduce latency for base staff and neighboring communities. The senior VP for public sector business at Verizon, Maggie Hallbach, emphasized the Air Force’s trust in “Verizon’s network, alongside the quality expertise from our team.” Enhancements will help the military pursue digital transformation, supporting equipment tests, AR/VR training, high-definition telemedicine, and AI-based biometric identification.
Additionally, Verizon secured a $1 million contract in January last year for 5G coverage at Army Garrison Hawaii’s Helemano Military Reservation with a new cell tower, ‘Dragon Tower.’ Further, a $176 million, 10-year Department of Homeland Security deal for emergency telecom service and wireless priority for responders, began last June.
The Department of the Navy awarded a contract for wireless services worth up to $2.67 billion over ten years, following a $15 million task order through the Enterprise Infrastructure Solutions contract. Verizon’s consistent focus on effective network solutions strengthens its partnership across various military branches, underscoring its strategic importance in national security and communication advancements.
