VIAVI Solutions Secures DOT Contract to Enhance Cellular Network Resilience Against Signal Interference

Enhancing Cellular Network Resilience Against Signal Interference

VIAVI Solutions Inc. has secured a pivotal contract with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as part of the Complementary Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (CPNT) Action Plan Rapid Phase II. This initiative is designed to enhance the resilience of cellular networks in the face of GPS/GNSS signal interference, including jamming and spoofing attacks. The project reflects the increasing demand for reliable and secure positioning systems, particularly as the reliance on GPS technology grows across critical infrastructure sectors. Through this contract, VIAVI aims to provide innovative solutions that bolster the integrity and reliability of cellular networks essential for various applications.

The integration and testing of VIAVI's technologies will take place at its advanced facilities, specifically the Automated Lab-as-a-Service for Open RAN (VALOR™) and the Open RAN Center for Integration and Deployment (ORCID). These labs have received funding from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) through the Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund (PWSCIF). VIAVI plans to employ its SecureTimeSM altGNSS GEO-L service and SecurePNT™ 6200 resilient timing solution, which is designed to seamlessly transition to a GPS-independent GEO-L satellite-based time service during interference events. This capability is crucial for maintaining operational continuity for essential infrastructures such as data centers, financial systems, and power grids, which are increasingly susceptible to disruptions.

Doug Russell, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Aerospace and Defense at VIAVI, emphasizes the company's commitment to supporting the CPNT Action Plan. He notes that the technology is prepared for deployment in operational environments, showcasing its readiness to meet the challenges posed by signal interference. In addition to rigorous lab testing, the GEO-L service and equipment will undergo evaluations during a government field test event that simulates real-world jamming and spoofing scenarios. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure that the solutions developed will effectively protect critical infrastructure across the nation.

In related developments, VIAVI continues to be recognized for its extensive range of network test, monitoring, and assurance solutions, catering to diverse sectors including telecommunications, cloud computing, and aerospace. The company’s involvement in the CPNT initiative underscores its strategic focus on enhancing the security and reliability of navigation systems, which are vital for modern technological infrastructures.

Moreover, the collaboration with the DOT not only positions VIAVI as a leader in the field of resilient positioning technologies but also highlights the increasing importance of safeguarding against interference in an era where digital connectivity is paramount. The outcomes from the VALOR and ORCID labs are expected to facilitate broader adoption of CPNT services, ultimately contributing to the security and resilience of the nation's critical infrastructure.