image: Military program managers received a briefing about SwRI's private 5G network and its role in tactical edge operations, which are missions in high-risk areas with limited connectivity. The network's hybrid architecture — combining a fixed campus testbed with a portable tower for field deployments — supports the full research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) lifecycle for new technologies.
Credit: Southwest Research Institute
SAN ANTONIO — September 15, 2025 — Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) installed a private 5G research, development, test and evaluation network to boost security, eliminate dependency on outside mobile network providers and expand network access for advanced 5G projects. The secure, high-velocity 5G network allows rapid deployment of communication resources and wireless connectivity on the SwRI campus or off-site in the field, providing wide coverage for research and development.
The SwRI network supports a range of 5G advancements — including cybersecurity research, drone technology, edge computing initiatives, and antenna development and testing — but a private 5G network offers additional benefits and capabilities.
“A tactical mobile network is useful in various scenarios,” said Jody Little, a director in SwRI’s Defense and Intelligence Solutions Division who is leading the 5G network development. “The military needs solid communication when conducting operations. Severe weather and natural disaster victims need a reliable connection when services go out. Oilfield workers rely on 5G. A private, mobile network offers convenience, flexibility and a safety net in vulnerable areas.”
Fifth-generation mobile network technology, or 5G, processes large volumes of data swiftly and in real time. While the SwRI campus has a fixed network infrastructure, users can easily transport system base stations and equipment for remote installation.
“The network provides broadband communication without the need for fiber optic cables,” said Charles Almquist, an SwRI program manager who is part of the network development team. “It’s much quicker and easier to set up. It may take two days to run fiber, whereas we can set up our mobile 5G system, configure it and deploy it in a matter of hours. And it’s just as easy to tear down.”
SwRI’s private 5G network operates on the Citizens Broadband Radio Service, an unlicensed spectrum approved by the Federal Communications Commission for private network use. The network development team plans to expand the system beyond 5G to support next-generation 6G, which integrates satellite and artificial intelligence capabilities.
“Eventually, people will be working entirely on secure networks and not be as dependent on fiber. That’s coming,” Little said.
The private network was funded through SwRI’s Internal Research and Development program, which provides resources for future-focused, unproven concepts to advance technology for government and industry clients. The network achieved initial operating capability in August 2025.
To learn more about SwRI’s 5G and wireless communications capabilities, visit https://www.swri.org/markets/defense-security/software-advanced-electronic-warfare/rf-sensors-systems/advanced-systems.