U.S. Air Force Chooses FirstNet for Public Safety Communications Across 15 Bases

Rhea-AI Summary

The U.S. Air Force has selected FirstNet, built with AT&T, to provide priority communications for public safety personnel at 15 bases nationwide. This agreement, covering a 21-year term, aims to modernize communication systems in alignment with national defense strategies. FirstNet will offer dedicated connectivity, supporting both LTE and 5G capabilities, enabling reliable communication among base first responders. With access to over 100 portable cell sites, FirstNet enhances operational readiness during critical events.

Positive

• The Air Force agreement with FirstNet covers 21 years, enhancing long-term communication infrastructure.
• FirstNet provides dedicated LTE - Band 14 and 5G connectivity, improving operational capabilities.
• Access to a fleet of over 100 portable cell sites ensures reliable communication during emergencies.

Negative

• None.

OAKTON, Va., Oct. 5, 2021 /PRNewswire/ --

What's the news? The U.S. Air Force has selected FirstNet®, Built with AT&T – the only nationwide high-speed broadband communications platform built with and for first responders and those who support them – to deliver reliable, always-on priority communications to its public safety personnel and, for first responders, preemption, on 15 bases across the country. The agreement struck between the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC) and AT&T* provides for the delivery of FirstNet connectivity for 21 years: the remaining life of the public-private partnership between the U.S. government and AT&T.

Why is this important? Modernizing communications is a top priority for the U.S. Air Force and the Department of Defense. The Air Force is delivering on this strategy by investing to improve network coverage and adopting FirstNet initially across 15 bases while it considers expanding FirstNet accessibility to others.

FirstNet offers a wide range of mission-centric capabilities to support communications among base first responders and public safety personnel. It supports reliable, secure and interoperable communications among on- and off-base public safety personnel when collaborating to mitigate incidents that threaten the safety of airmen and the general public. Unlike commercial networks, FirstNet is built to public safety's strict specifications and requirements. And the FirstNet network comes with unique features, functionality, and a dedicated lane of connectivity for the Air Force's military and public safety community to help them connect to critical information they need when they need it.  

In addition, with FirstNet, these U.S. Air Force bases will have access to a dedicated nationwide fleet of 100+ land-based and airborne portable cell sites stationed across the country to provide connectivity during significant events in support of public safety's mission. These critical response assets are available 24/7 at no additional charge.

How would the Air Force benefit from FirstNet?  With a physically separate, dedicated core, FirstNet provides public safety personnel always-on priority and, for first responders, preemption, across LTE – Band 14 spectrum plus all of AT&T's commercial LTE spectrum bands. Band 14 is nationwide, high-quality spectrum set aside by the government specifically for FirstNet that allows for capabilities that other spectrum bands don't. Plus, the FirstNet core has been upgraded to enable reliable 5G connectivity. These upgrades will allow these Air Force bases to have access to network connectivity with increased capacity and high throughput speeds on the FirstNet core, as well as 5G-powered network edge computing capabilities that will support increased bandwidth efficiencies and the creation of innovative edge-based solutions.

FirstNet offers these Air Force bases interoperability with existing land mobile radio assets and with first responders off base. FirstNet supports voice, data, and streaming video communications with priority and preemption among base and local community first responders when needed.

FirstNet is the first-ever nationwide network to introduce comprehensive tower-to-core encryption based on open industry standards. FirstNet traffic can be automatically secured as it moves from the cell tower, through the backhaul, to the core and back again.  FirstNet continues to grow because it offers distinct advantages from commercial offerings. And the more than 17,000 agencies and organizations – accounting for more than 2.5 million connections nationwide – would agree.¹

What is FirstNet? FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America's first responders and the extended public safety community. Shaped by the vision of the first responder community and Congress following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, FirstNet stands above commercial offerings. It is built with AT&T in public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) – an independent agency within the federal government. The FirstNet network is providing public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it, unique benefits like always-on priority and preemption for first responders, and high-quality Band 14 spectrum. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, and law enforcement save lives and protect their communities.

What people are saying:

Lance Spencer, Client Executive Vice President – Defense, AT&T Public Sector and FirstNet
"We aim to be the network provider of choice as the Air Force moves more deliberately toward consuming advanced communications capabilities. It's an honor to deliver FirstNet to support base personnel and first responders to help ensure the safety of each base and its surrounding community."

Where can I find more information?  Visit FirstNet.com or Go here for more information about AT&T's work in the public sector.

¹As of Q2 2021.

FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks and service marks of the First Responder Network Authority.

*About AT&T Communications
We help family, friends and neighbors connect in meaningful ways every day. From the first phone call 140+ years ago to mobile video streaming, we @ATT innovate to improve lives. AT&T Communications is part of AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T). For more information, please visit us at att.com.

 

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SOURCE AT&T Communications

FAQ

What is the significance of the Air Force's agreement with FirstNet for public safety communications?

The agreement signifies a commitment to enhancing communication reliability for public safety personnel across 15 bases for the next 21 years.

How will FirstNet improve communications for the U.S. Air Force?

FirstNet will provide dedicated LTE and 5G connectivity, enhancing communication capabilities and operational efficiency among first responders.

What capabilities does FirstNet offer to the Air Force?

FirstNet offers priority communications, interoperability among responders, and access to a fleet of portable cell sites.

When was the agreement between the U.S. Air Force and FirstNet announced?

The agreement was announced on October 5, 2021.

How many bases will FirstNet serve under the Air Force agreement?

FirstNet will serve 15 Air Force bases across the country.