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Modular Open Architecture 5G Solutions for Allied Defense Platforms
Nokia Federal Solutions and Lockheed Martin have developed a CMOSS-aligned 5G system to provide secure, commercial-grade connectivity for military vehicles and expeditionary frameworks.
www.lockheedmartin.com
The integration of high-bandwidth commercial telecommunications into military environments requires adherence to strict interoperability and security protocols. By utilizing a modular, open-architecture approach, this 5G solution enables defense forces to leverage the speed of a digital supply chain for software updates and hardware scaling. The system is engineered to function within the automotive data ecosystem of tactical vehicles, providing a standardized communication layer that supports mission-critical data exchange.
Technical Alignment with CMOSS Standards
The core of this capability lies in its adherence to the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance (C5ISR)/Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS). Developed by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, CMOSS defines specific hardware and software module specifications.
By aligning with these standards, the solution employs a plug-and-play architecture. This reduces the integration complexity typically associated with proprietary radio systems.
Technical benefits include:
- Interoperability: Standardized interfaces allow for the seamless exchange of modules across different vehicle platforms.
- Sustainability: Component-level updates can be performed without requiring a complete overhaul of the platform's electronic architecture.
- Reduced Footprint: The modular design minimizes the physical space and power requirements for 5G hardware within constrained vehicle environments.
Implementation of Hybrid 5G.MIL Architectures
This solution integrates Nokia’s carrier-grade 5G core and radio access network (RAN) technology with Lockheed Martin’s 5G.MIL framework. The resulting hybrid network is designed to bridge the gap between high-speed commercial 5G and the rigorous security requirements of the Department of War (DoW).
The technology allows mission systems to utilize cost-effective, commercially driven 5G pipelines while maintaining the resilience necessary for contested operational environments. This architecture is particularly relevant for NATO nations seeking to incorporate standardized 5G capabilities into allied platforms, ensuring that hardware remains compatible across international defense systems.
Evolution from Integrated Demonstrations to Field Readiness
This launch follows a collaboration initiated in 2025, which originally integrated Nokia’s 5G technology with Lockheed Martin’s Hybrid Base Station. While earlier phases focused on technical demonstrations, the current iteration provides a field-ready solution.
Mike Loomis, president and chief executive officer of Nokia Federal Solutions, noted that the technology portfolio has been adapted specifically to align with DoW-defined open systems to ensure the capabilities are ready for immediate deployment. Sarah Hiza, senior vice president for Technology and Strategic Innovation at Lockheed Martin, stated that the focus of the collaboration is on delivering capability that can be deployed, sustained, and trusted over the long term through disciplined engineering and scale.
Comparison with Traditional Tactical Communications
The CMOSS-aligned 5G solution differs from traditional tactical radios through its use of a modular open systems approach (MOSA). While legacy systems often rely on "black box" proprietary hardware that is difficult to upgrade, this open architecture allows for the rapid insertion of new technology. By using commercial 5G as a foundation, the system offers significantly higher data throughput than standard narrowband tactical waveforms, supporting advanced applications such as real-time video surveillance and sensor fusion across a distributed network.
Edited by Evgeny Churilov, Induportals Media - Adapted by AI.
www.lockheedmartin.com
This solution integrates Nokia’s carrier-grade 5G core and radio access network (RAN) technology with Lockheed Martin’s 5G.MIL framework. The resulting hybrid network is designed to bridge the gap between high-speed commercial 5G and the rigorous security requirements of the Department of War (DoW).
The technology allows mission systems to utilize cost-effective, commercially driven 5G pipelines while maintaining the resilience necessary for contested operational environments. This architecture is particularly relevant for NATO nations seeking to incorporate standardized 5G capabilities into allied platforms, ensuring that hardware remains compatible across international defense systems.
Evolution from Integrated Demonstrations to Field Readiness
This launch follows a collaboration initiated in 2025, which originally integrated Nokia’s 5G technology with Lockheed Martin’s Hybrid Base Station. While earlier phases focused on technical demonstrations, the current iteration provides a field-ready solution.
Mike Loomis, president and chief executive officer of Nokia Federal Solutions, noted that the technology portfolio has been adapted specifically to align with DoW-defined open systems to ensure the capabilities are ready for immediate deployment. Sarah Hiza, senior vice president for Technology and Strategic Innovation at Lockheed Martin, stated that the focus of the collaboration is on delivering capability that can be deployed, sustained, and trusted over the long term through disciplined engineering and scale.
Comparison with Traditional Tactical Communications
The CMOSS-aligned 5G solution differs from traditional tactical radios through its use of a modular open systems approach (MOSA). While legacy systems often rely on "black box" proprietary hardware that is difficult to upgrade, this open architecture allows for the rapid insertion of new technology. By using commercial 5G as a foundation, the system offers significantly higher data throughput than standard narrowband tactical waveforms, supporting advanced applications such as real-time video surveillance and sensor fusion across a distributed network.
Edited by Evgeny Churilov, Induportals Media - Adapted by AI.
www.lockheedmartin.com
