First Military 5G Test Site in Europe

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Emerging fifth-generation wireless communications –5G – have become one of the most intriguing aspects of next-generation military technology. In Europe, the technology has made a step forward. A 5G military test site has been unveiled by the Latvian National Armed Forces in collaboration with mobile network innovator LMT. This marks the first such 5G military test site in Europe.

5G technology developments in the military sphere are expected to lay the groundwork for new applications of AI and machine learning in the area of autonomous supply, improving the link between commanders and soldiers on the battlefield and ensuring lower network latency. The speed of the network operations will allow for massive real-time data transmission, reducing the size and weight of digital military platforms, including those that soldiers carry individually.

The test site is located in Adazi Military Base, which is also the location for the Canadian-led NATO battlegroup (Enhanced Forward Presence). The test site has a functioning 5G base station and 5G coverage throughout the site, making it possible to test and create new generation mobile technologies.

The test site will allow for developing and experimenting with various sensors, defense systems, and platforms, including unmanned solutions, thus accelerating the technological development of military applications and promoting the R&D of defense innovations in NATO countries.

The first innovations up for testing will be virtual and augmented reality glasses for medical training, support systems for unmanned aerial vehicles, and computer vision and sensor solutions for the National Guard, all of which are made in Latvia. Among these solutions is a training program for military personnel in a virtual environment, using a VR program created by Exonicus, together with the LightSpace Technologies VR headset, which is made in Latvia.

According to baltic-course.com, Latvia is represented in two interconnected NATO 5G research projects, under the leadership of LMT and with the support of the Ministry of Defense. In addition, Latvia is participating in European Defense Fund project iMUGS (integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System) where modular unmanned ground systems are developed and 5G network tests are planned in relation to the autonomy of military platforms (tanks and drones).