VIAVI Solutions Partners with U.S. DOT to Enhance Cellular Network Resilience Against Interference

Strengthening Cellular Network Resilience: VIAVI Solutions’ New Initiative with the U.S. DOT

VIAVI Solutions Inc. secures a pivotal contract with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) under the Complementary Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (CPNT) Action Plan Rapid Phase II. This collaboration aims to bolster the resilience of cellular networks against GPS and GNSS signal interference, such as jamming and spoofing. Given the increasing reliance on precise timing and navigation for critical infrastructure, the need for robust alternatives to GPS has become paramount. VIAVI’s engagement with the CPNT initiative not only underscores the importance of secure positioning technologies but also highlights the company’s commitment to enhancing national infrastructure resilience.

The project will unfold at VIAVI’s Automated Lab-as-a-Service for Open RAN (VALOR™) and the Open RAN Center for Integration and Deployment (ORCID) labs. Both facilities receive funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund (PWSCIF). Utilizing its SecureTimeSM altGNSS GEO-L service and SecurePNT™ 6200 resilient timing solution, VIAVI is set to provide a GPS-independent satellite-based time service that can maintain precision even during interference events. This dual capability not only strengthens cellular network reliability but also supports vital sectors, including data centers, power grids, and financial systems, that depend on accurate timing.

Doug Russell, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Aerospace and Defense at VIAVI, expresses enthusiasm for the partnership and emphasizes the readiness of their technology for real-world applications. The project involves both lab testing and field evaluations, simulating live-sky jamming and spoofing scenarios to assess the performance of the GEO-L service and related equipment. By collecting data from these tests, VIAVI aims to facilitate the wider adoption of CPNT services, ultimately enhancing the protection of critical infrastructure across the United States.

In addition to this significant contract, VIAVI Solutions continues to be recognized for its expertise in network testing, monitoring, and assurance solutions. The company serves various sectors, including telecommunications, cloud computing, and aerospace, further establishing its critical role in the evolving landscape of secure communications and navigation services.

As the demand for reliable positioning and timing systems grows, VIAVI's initiatives align with national interests in safeguarding essential services from potential disruptions, thereby reinforcing the company's reputation as a leader in innovative solutions for the telecommunications industry.