Charles Lyons-Burt
As the world prepares for the next wave of wireless telecommunications, 6G is becoming a pivotal technology in advancing defense capabilities. With higher data speeds, reduced latency, and enhanced reliability, 6G promises to unlock new opportunities in military operations, intelligence gathering and secure communications. Governments, research institutions and defense contractors are rushing to stay ahead in this race—not just to leverage 6G’s potential but also to maintain strategic and technological superiority.
A Global Race for 6G Leadership
While 5G has transformed wireless communication, the groundwork for 6G is already being laid. Initiatives led by the U.S. Department of Defense aim to ensure that the U.S. shapes the future of 6G technology, thereby setting global standards and securing allied military technology against potential adversaries. Competition with nations like China has intensified efforts, with both countries vying to lead in the development, deployment and regulatory frameworks for next-generation technologies.
At the Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 5G Summit TOMORROW, February 27, DOD Deputy Principal Director for FutureG Marlan Macklin will share an exclusive look at forthcoming next-generation network initiatives at the department. Save your spot—there are a few tickets remaining for this Tysons Corner, Virginia GovCon conference.
Recent Breakthroughs and Initiatives
2022 – Launch of DOD’s 6G R&D Center
The DOD launched the Open6G initiative in collaboration with Northeastern University as part of its Innovative Beyond 5G, or IB5G, program. This research hub serves as a center of excellence for exploring the potential of open radio access networks tailored to military purposes. The project has garnered $1.77 million in funding for its initial phase and focuses on building secure communication systems that align with the unique needs of military operations and commercial innovations.
2023 – Virginia Tech FutureG Initiative
Virginia Tech researchers secured a $9 million DOD award to lead the Mobile Distributed MIMO, a.k.a. dMIMO, project under the FutureG program. Distributed MIMO—multiple input, multiple output—technology represents a leap forward in wireless communication, enabling greater network scalability, enhanced reliability and reduced interference. The initiative also emphasizes training the next generation of engineers to support 6G advancements, combining academic expertise with practical applications in real-world military and commercial contexts.
2024 – Transitioning from 5G to 6G at the Pentagon
The Pentagon’s Future Generation Wireless Technology Office has shifted its focus to 6G, incorporating lessons learned from earlier 5G programs. Initiatives such as the Integrated Sensing and Communications, a.k.a. ISAC, project explore the use of wireless signals for environmental monitoring, enhancing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems. The department’s efforts aim to create open software models like OCUDU—open centralized unit, distributed unit—to meet military and industry needs while addressing evolving cybersecurity challenges.
2025 – University of Dayton Research Collaboration
Researchers from the University of Dayton, in collaboration with industry giants like Lockheed Martin and Intel, have embarked on the Wideband Multifunctional Software Defined Radio, or WMSDR, project. This effort seeks to enhance 5G/6G capabilities, paving the way for autonomous, miniaturized and cost-efficient systems in aerospace and defense. The project exemplifies the use of AI-driven reconfigurable filters and software-defined technology to overcome interference, optimize spectrum efficiency and produce compact communication systems.
The 2025 5G Summit is packed with fascinating sessions about how communications networks are being used currently for innovative defense initiatives and what mission-critical purposes they can achieve in the future. Check out the full lineup and register now!
How 6G Revolutionizes Defense Applications
6G is not just about faster speeds; its potential applications in defense are extensive and impactful. Below are some key areas where 6G is expected to reshape military operations:
1. Enhanced Situational Awareness
The high data speeds and low latency of 6G will allow real-time data transmission from multiple sensors deployed in the field. This will result in improved situational awareness, enabling faster and more informed decision-making during operations.
2. Integrated Sensing and Communications
The ISAC project demonstrates how 6G wireless signals can double as sensor networks, gathering detailed environmental data. This technology can track drone activity, improve surveillance systems and provide real-time intelligence critical to mission success.
3. Autonomous Systems
6G networks are expected to underpin the operations of autonomous systems, such as drones, vehicles and robots. With ultra-reliable connectivity, these systems can execute complex tasks in contested environments with minimal human intervention.
4. Cybersecurity and Resilience
6G networks will integrate advanced encryption protocols and decentralized architectures to reduce vulnerabilities. Open RAN systems also promise enhanced flexibility, minimizing the risks posed by traditional proprietary network models.
5. Advanced Communications
By using distributed MIMO systems, 6G can eliminate the need for heavy cables and enhance mobility. Troops in the field will be able to establish wireless communication networks quickly, improving logistical efficiency and operational readiness.
Challenges and Risks
While the benefits of 6G are apparent, there are inherent risks and challenges, particularly regarding security and commercialization:
- Security concerns: Commercialization of certain technologies, like ISAC, could make critical capabilities accessible to adversaries. The DOD’s focus on open software models aims to mitigate this risk.
- Infrastructure development: Building the infrastructure required for 6G involves significant investment and coordination between government, academia and industry.
- Standardization battle: Competing to set global standards will require deft policy navigation, as dominance in standard-setting can impact global influence and alliances.
The Road Ahead
With 6G networks anticipated to materialize by the 2030s, current investments and projects are shaping the foundational technologies and frameworks required to make this a reality. From improving ISR systems to enabling autonomous operations, the capabilities 6G is expected to unlock will revolutionize defense as we know it.
Collaboration between research institutions, industry, and government remains a critical factor in staying ahead in the global race for 6G leadership. The Department of Defense’s proactive approach, illustrated by initiatives like Open6G, ISAC and WMSDR, underscores the urgency of achieving technological dominance in an era where wireless communication has become a linchpin for national security.
Continue the conversation at the 2025 5G Summit on Feb. 27.
