5G, Edge Computing, And The Military

By John Oncea, Editor

Edge computing brings data sources closer to the user. 5G does faster speeds and lower latency. Combining the two improves performance and user experience, something the military is looking to take advantage of.

Unlike traditional computing models that send data to a centralized cloud server for processing, edge computing brings processing and data storage closer to the source of data generation. In other words, edge computing performs data processing and analysis right at the “edge” of the network, resulting in reduced latency, bandwidth efficiency, improved privacy and security, offline capability, scalability, real time insights, and cost efficiency.

Applications such as autonomous vehicles or industrial automation are improved, strains placed on network bandwidth are alleviated, and sensitive data is more secure as it doesn't need to traverse long distances or be stored externally.

Beyond that, edge devices can continue to function and process data even when connectivity to the central cloud is lost and, instead of relying solely on a central server’s processing power, the collective processing capacity of edge devices can be leveraged.

5G networks are improving healthcare, transportation, communication, and more by offering faster speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity compared to 4G networks. Much like edge computing, 5G improves many applications, including:

• Remote device control: 5G’s low latency and high speeds make it possible to control devices in near-real time, which could lead to new uses for machine-to-machine communication.
• Internet of Things (IoT): 5G can improve IoT’s energy efficiency by allowing for faster data transmission, which can reduce the time devices are actively operating and extend their battery life. 5G networks are also designed to handle small data packets, common in IoT communications.
• Manufacturing: 5G networks can help accelerate the transition to Industry 4.0, which uses advanced automation, data exchange, and IoT devices to transform manufacturing processes. This could include real-time production line monitoring, predictive maintenance, and better supply chain management.
• Wearable technology: 5G networks can improve wearable technology, which could lead to better remote patient monitoring.
• Autonomous vehicles: 5G could be used for autonomous vehicles to receive automatic updates, security patches, and feature additions. It could also provide real time updates on weather, traffic, and safety, as well as enable vehicle-to-vehicle communication.

The Military Takes Notice

Much like the communications, automotive, and healthcare industries, the military is looking to benefit from 5G and edge computing, knowing it can improve mission-critical operations that often occur in locations with inconsistent network connectivity.

Companies such as Verizon and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure are working with the Department of Defense to develop technologies that maximize what 5G and edge computing offer.

For its part, Verizon is developing portable 5G wireless and satellite communications gear in combination with multi-access edge computing (MEC). Oracle is working on a tactical 4G/5G solution that uses Oracle Roving Edge Infrastructure to create a localized network in the field.

These technologies will provide the same benefits to the military they do to other industries: faster response times, reliable connectivity, data management, secure virtual bridges, and private data protection. According to National Defense, the military is looking to leverage 5G and edge computing in several ways, including:

1. Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2): The Department of Defense (DoD) has emphasized the integration of 5G and edge computing into military operations for higher performance, data-driven applications, and machine-to-machine communication. This technology is key to the military’s concept of JADC2, which aims to unify networks, sensors, and weapon systems to distribute information across services, commands, decision makers, and warfighters.
2. Logistics and Weapon Capabilities: 5G and edge computing can improve areas of command and control (C2), logistics, future weapon capabilities, and implementation into large-scale combat operations.
3. Agile Combat Employment (ACE): The Air Force has undertaken the concept of ACE to counter threats and mitigate challenges in the Pacific theater. Systems such as the Automated Tactical Targeting and Counter-Fire Kill-Chain System can link disparate sensors and shooters and autonomously provide near-instantaneous targetable data.
4. Scalable Integrated Network: What these developing systems lack is a scalable integrated 5G network that is coupled with edge computing at the forefront of the battlefield. The goal is to allow the military to use edge computing without needing to reimagine their existing infrastructure.
5. Data Protection at the Edge: As the Defense Department explores new applications, data protection needs to advance along with the possibilities. All edge devices must be properly secured despite their less-central location and data should be encrypted at rest and in flight.
6. Operational Efficiency: Federal agencies believe that 5G (and beyond that, 6G) will lead to great leaps forward in everything from research to operational efficiency.

The military's adoption of 5G and edge computing underscores the critical importance of these technologies in mission-critical operations, particularly in areas with inconsistent network connectivity. Initiatives like Verizon's portable 5G systems and Oracle's localized network solutions exemplify how these advancements can enhance military capabilities in logistics, command and control, and data-driven decision-making.

By integrating 5G and edge computing into the Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) framework, the Department of Defense aims to unify its networks, sensors, and weapon systems for superior operational efficiency. As these technologies continue to evolve, ensuring robust data protection and scalable integration will be paramount in maintaining the security and efficacy of military and civilian applications alike.