FirstNet, the nationwide public safety broadband network in the US built by AT&T through a public-private partnership, is receiving more than $200 million for initial network upgrades to set FirstNet on the path to 5G and to expand the dedicated fleet of deployable assets.
A total of $218 million has been approved for FirstNet Authority to invest in:
- Expanding the fleet of FirstNet deployables to enhance network coverage and capacity for public safety during emergencies and events. In 2019, public safety turned to the FirstNet deployables for additional support in more than 450+ operations around the nation. The FirstNet fleet currently includes 72 land-based deployables such as Satellite Cell on Light Trucks (SatCOLTs), plus three airborne Flying COWs (Cell on Wings) and the FirstNet One aerostat.
- Initial generational upgrades to enable 5G network capabilities. Evolving the network to 5G is expected to be a multi-phase effort, beginning with upgrades to the dedicated FirstNet network core.
Edward Horowitz, Board Chair, FirstNet Authoroty
The Board’s actions set the network on a path to 5G and will boost on-demand coverage for public safety. We look forward to delivering on these advancements for public safety and working to identify our next network investment opportunities.
Edward Parkinson, Executive Director, FirstNet Authority
We appreciate their continued support as we work with them to identify investment opportunities for FirstNet, the only nationwide public safety broadband network. This is just the beginning; we look forward to the work ahead to achieve the full potential of this network.