Understanding Open Radio Access Networks

The telecommunications landscape is rapidly evolving, with open radio access networks emerging as a transformative technology. ORAN offers a vision of more flexible, scalable and cost-effective network architectures, and its development and implementation are gaining attention from industry and government alike. This article explores what ORAN is, its key applications, and how it is reshaping business and government operations.

At the next essential GovCon networking event, Potomac Officers Club’s 2025 5G Summit, there will be a panel session devoted to ORAN and its deployment in tactical networks. Register to attend so you can unlock the invaluable insights these expert panelists have to share—and regale them with your burning questions.

What Is ORAN?

Open radio access networks refer to a network architecture approach that breaks down traditional, proprietary radio access networks, allowing interoperability between hardware and software from different vendors. Unlike conventional RANs, where a single vendor typically provides both hardware and software, ORAN creates a multi-vendor ecosystem.

Using open standards and interfaces, ORAN enables innovation through the separation of hardware and software. This approach not only enables greater competition in the telecommunications space but also offers cost savings, improved flexibility and the ability to incorporate advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Key Benefits of ORAN

For businesses, governments, and telecom professionals, ORAN offers several advantages:

• Vendor diversity: By allowing components from multiple suppliers to work together, ORAN mitigates risks associated with vendor lock-in. This enables organizations to select the best technologies for their specific needs.
• Cost efficiency: ORAN reduces costs by leveraging off-the-shelf hardware rather than proprietary systems, enabling greater scalability for networks such as 5G.
• Enhanced Innovation: Open interfaces foster greater collaboration between vendors, facilitating the development of cutting-edge technologies like AI/ML-driven network optimization and automation.
• Operational flexibility: With ORAN, organizations can tailor solutions to address unique use cases, from rural connectivity to advanced military communications.

Real-World Applications of ORAN

Advancing Federal Technology Goals

The U.S. General Services Administration has shown increasing interest in ORAN to align with federal initiatives like the National Strategy to Secure 5G and the Secure 5G and Beyond Act of 2020. By researching ORAN providers and exploring innovative use cases, the GSA is ensuring the government leverages state-of-the-art communication networks while maintaining national cybersecurity.

Additionally, ORAN technologies are supported by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which has invested significantly in vendor development and testing facilities. For example, NTIA allocated $50 million to establish a lab for testing ORAN, promoting innovation and strengthening the cellular networks supply chain.

Military Applications at Fort Bliss

The Department of Defense is actively exploring the capabilities of ORAN for military applications. Hughes Network Systems recently secured a $6.5 million contract to develop a prototype ORAN network at Fort Bliss, Texas. This project focuses on enhancing command and control capabilities using cutting-edge 5G communications technologies.

Anthony Smith, acting DOD chief information officer for command, control, and communications, noted that ORAN offers improved flexibility in managing spectrum and greater resilience for critical military operations. Key components of this effort include the development of a RAN Intelligent Controller, or RIC, designed to optimize network performance and enable scalable communication solutions.

This initiative builds on the success of previous projects, such as a standalone 5G network installed by Hughes at military bases like Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. Such experimentation underscores the military’s strategic focus on ORAN for secure, adaptable, and robust communication systems in complex operational environments.

CW5 Jeramy Cosner, chief technology officer of the Command and Control Cross-Functional Team at Army Futures Command, will bring a DOD perspective to the ORAN panel at the 2025 5G Summit. Save your seat now to hear his thoughts!

How ORAN Is Reshaping Telecom

ORAN adoption extends beyond military and government initiatives, with implications for the broader telecom industry:

1. Boosting network innovation 

ORAN democratizes the development of RAN systems, allowing new players in the telecommunications industry to bring innovative solutions to market. Startups and smaller vendors can now compete on a more level playing field with traditional telecommunication giants.

2. Rural connectivity 

Open architecture systems are crucial for extending connectivity to underserved or remote areas. ORAN’s flexibility allows telecom operators to provide cost-efficient and scalable solutions for bridging the digital divide.

3. Rapid deployment of 5G 

ORAN accelerates the rollout of 5G networks by offering modular, cost-effective options for network expansion. Its reliance on open standards simplifies deployment, offering both urban and rural markets faster access to high-speed connectivity.

4. AI/ML Integration 

Using AI/ML, ORAN enables enhanced network management, such as dynamic spectrum allocation and predictive maintenance, further optimizing telecom operations. This incorporation of smart technologies also enhances network security and reliability.

Challenges & Future Prospects

While ORAN presents significant benefits, its implementation is not without challenges. Ensuring compatibility between hardware and software from multiple vendors can be complex and time-intensive. Additionally, cybersecurity concerns remain as networks become more open and interconnected.

Despite these hurdles, government and private industry continue to invest in ORAN as part of long-term strategies to revolutionize telecommunications. The ongoing development and refinement of ORAN standards, coupled with innovations in hardware and AI integration, signal a promising future for this technology.

Open radio access networks represent a critical step forward in transforming the telecommunications landscape. For government contractors, telecom professionals, and everyday citizens, understanding ORAN and its applications is essential to navigating the rapidly evolving world of global connectivity.

Whether it’s enhancing military communications, bringing 5G to rural areas, or fostering a new wave of telecom innovation, ORAN is paving the way toward more efficient, scalable, and accessible networks.