IMPLEMENTATION OF TACTICAL OPEN SOURCE 5G MOBILE NETWORKS

The implementation of fifth-generation (5G) communications technology is a global effort, with China leading the way. The Department of Defense has initiated efforts on 5G implementation from smart warehouses to virtual combat training; however, focus on the tactical communications level remains minimal. This thesis examines the feasibility of using OpenAirInterface Software Alliance (OSA) software to build a private mobile ad hoc 5G network for various military applications. First, we created a Fourth Generation/Long Term Evolution network utilizing commercial off-the-shelf equipment and software to operate the radio access network (RAN), software-defined radio, and an evolved packet core (EPC). Then we connected the EPC to an 802.11 network for internet access. We successfully configured a subscriber identification module and smartphone and attached it to the network for data services. Although the OSA software is robust and customizable, it is difficult to make changes, is restrictive in which user equipment (UE) can connect to the network, and does not reliably allow the UE to connect. The potential of OSA software for military applications is apparent but does not appear ready for field implementation. Going forward, we recommend researchers use this work to implement new software versions and test scalability to reassess the feasibility of OSA software.