New DOD Private Network Strategy will Boost Wireless Innovation

WASHINGTON – Dec 14, 2023 – DISH today announced its support for provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24 NDAA) that will promote wireless innovation.

The new FY24 NDAA language will require the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop a strategy for deploying private wireless networks based on O-RAN architecture to military installations. The FY24 NDAA will also authorize $179,278,000 for research, development, test and evaluation for “Next Generation Information Communications Technology (5G),” which will help support wireless work across DOD.

“This is a positive development for our national security and the future of wireless technology,” said Jeff Blum, EVP, External and Legislative Affairs, DISH. “We look forward to working with the Department of Defense to help implement these provisions and bring the security and interoperability of O-RAN networks to our military service members across the globe.”

DISH has been a leader in O-RAN, working with DOD to establish a 5G private wireless O-RAN network at the Naval Air Station on Whidbey Island in Washington State. In collaboration with Hughes Network Systems, an EchoStar company, the network incorporates DISH’s spectrum holdings with Hughes’ satellite internet connection and network security management capabilities to provide a fast, secure and reliable 5G private network and edge cloud. The deployment supports flight line operations and aircraft maintenance, all designed to improve operational efficiency, performance and safety on base.

About DISH
DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) is a connectivity company. Since 1980, it has served as a disruptive force, driving innovation and value on behalf of consumers. Through its subsidiaries, the company provides television entertainment and award-winning technology to millions of customers with its satellite DISH TV and streaming SLING TV services. In 2020, the company became a nationwide U.S. wireless carrier through the acquisition of Boost Mobile. DISH continues to innovate in wireless, building the nation's first virtualized, O-RAN 5G broadband network.