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The Roles of Edge Computing, AI & 5G in DOD Tactical Ops

The Department of Defense continues to pursue technological innovation to maintain a competitive edge in an evolving landscape. Integrating edge computing, artificial intelligence and advanced 5G networks into tactical operations represents a strategic move toward enhancing operational capabilities. These advancements aim to enable real-time decision-making, seamless interconnectivity and data-driven efficiencies—crucial factors in modern warfare.

Below, we explore the DOD’s efforts to leverage these technologies across various domains, highlight key projects and provide insights into their potential to transform the future of defense operations.

There’s only one place to go for in-depth discussion of 5G and futureG systems and how they’re impacting and enabling defense strategy — the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 5G Summit. Hosted on Feb. 27 in Tysons Corner, Virginia, it will feature remarks from the Pentagon’s own Juan Ramirez, 5G cross-function team director, and Dr. Thomas Rondeau, principal director of futureG and 5G. Save your place today.

Edge Computing

Edge computing is playing a pivotal role in enabling the DOD to bring actionable data analysis closer to the battlefield and enhance operational efficiency at the tactical edge.

Developing an Operational Edge

The DOD has been advancing edge computing with an “intermediary capability” to bridge enterprise and tactical networks. This approach, outlined in the Joint Warfighting Cloud Capability initiative, reduces the need for cumbersome equipment at forward-deployed locations while maximizing access to critical data. This global network integration initiative ensures multi-tenant setups and enables seamless data sharing and rapid deployment of algorithms.

According to former DOD Chief Information Officer John Sherman, operational edge capabilities are essential for missions in challenging environments, such as those in the western Pacific, where connected cloud infrastructure near the tactical edge facilitates decision-making and enhances mission readiness.

Applications in Logistics and Maintenance

AI-enabled edge computing supports logistics and predictive maintenance by analyzing sensor data directly from vehicles and equipment in the field. This results in real-time condition assessments and preventative measures that minimize downtime and increase operational readiness.

Challenges

However, challenges persist, including power consumption, cooling requirements in austere environments, and standardizing technologies. Industry partnerships with major technology leaders such as Dell Technologies and NVIDIA are essential to overcome these hurdles by miniaturizing AI hardware and optimizing edge computing infrastructure.

Artificial Intelligence

AI adoption within the DOD is advancing rapidly, particularly on the tactical edge, where AI applications improve decision-making speed and accuracy.

AI for Signals Intelligence and Robotics

AI technologies are leveraged for tasks ranging from signals intelligence to autonomous robotics. The ability to categorize and analyze large datasets generated at the tactical edge is a game-changer in prioritizing actionable intelligence. Generative AI, for instance, is now capable of assisting commanders by processing complex datasets during missions to provide reliable insights.

Furthermore, applications like fleet management, supply chain optimization, and cybersecurity rely on smart sensors and digital twins to create predictive models and real-time feedback loops.

Future AI Capabilities

Emerging AI applications, such as real-time language translation for field communications, advanced heads-up displays that provide environmental assessments, and autonomous robotic systems for logistics, are expected to evolve significantly over the next decade.

Security Considerations

A primary concern of leveraging AI at the tactical edge is cybersecurity. Integrating AI solutions requires robust zero-trust frameworks and end-to-end encryption. AI-enabled cybersecurity tools ensure systems remain resilient to evolving threats.

5G Networks

The integration of 5G communication systems into DOD operations is unlocking hyperspeed connectivity across the battlefield, supporting high-bandwidth applications like Internet of Things devices, autonomous systems, and immersive training environments.

The Role of 5G in Modern Warfare

The DOD’s strategy for implementing 5G includes modernizing aging networks on military bases and introducing 5G-enabled tactical communications systems. This will support the Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control initiative, ensuring seamless communication across platforms operating on land, sea, air, space and cyber domains.

Notable features like network slicing ensure that virtual networks can be prioritized based on mission-critical applications, assigning resources dynamically and securely. Additionally, private 5G networks provide military bases with robust, software-defined infrastructures that extend connectivity to critical areas, such as training grounds and flight-line operations.

5G Use Cases

  • Smart Warehousing: Employing 5G for inventory tracking and supply chain automation on military testbeds.
  • Tactical Mobility: Creating mobile 5G base stations that can operate in austere environments, delivering connectivity and edge-computing capabilities where needed.
  • Autonomous Systems: Supporting latency-sensitive applications such as autonomous vehicles and unmanned aerial systems.

Security and Supply Chain Challenges

The integration of 5G networks must address national security concerns, particularly regarding equipment originating from adversarial providers. Utilizing Open Radio Access Network, or ORAN, architecture ensures interoperability between suppliers, reducing vendor lock-in and enhancing system transparency.

Case Studies

Intermediary Edge Capability

The DOD is developing intermediary operational edge capabilities to serve as bridges between continental U.S.-based cloud infrastructure and forward-deployed tactical units. These intermediaries allow teams to deploy new tools and algorithms at the tactical edge, enhancing flexibility and operational power.

5G Implementation

The 2024 National Defense Authorization Act allocated $179 million for research into next-generation communications, with a focus on transitioning from 5G pilot programs to full-scale adoption on military bases. This transition will unlock improved data traffic management and system interoperability.

AI at the Tactical Edge

A partnership between Dell Technologies and NVIDIA aims to provide field deployable AI enterprise solutions for real-time analytics and Generative AI applications. These advancements aim to transform mission capabilities at the edge while meeting strict cybersecurity standards.

The Future of Defense Technology

The DOD’s strategic focus on edge computing, AI, and 5G is instrumental in achieving operational superiority. These interconnected technologies empower commanders with the ability to make faster, data-driven decisions while maintaining communication reliability and security in contested environments.

However, as these implementations expand, addressing challenges related to interoperability, power limitations, and cybersecurity will remain critical. Industry partnerships play an essential role in driving innovation and standardization to ensure the DOD stays ahead of emerging threats.

By integrating 5G-powered connectivity, AI-driven insights, and edge-enabled decision-making, the DOD is successfully reshaping the tactical landscape into a highly capable, connected and adaptive operational environment—paving the way toward a data-driven future in defense operations.

2025 5G Summit POC

At the 2025 5G Summit, deals will be made and new ideas will be formed about how to effectively implement and modernize telecommunications networks in the defense realm. Don’t miss this hotly anticipated event — register now!

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