First Private 5G Network for Naval Operations launched by Samsung and KT in South Korea
The First Private 5G Network for Naval Operations will be launched by Samsung and KT in South Korea. This ambitious project is a key part of the country’s Smart Naval Port initiative and is set to enhance the operational efficiency of battleships and naval bases while improving overall defense capabilities.
The collaboration between Samsung and KT started in the summer of 2024, and the deployment is scheduled for completion by December 2025. Once finished, the project will feature a fully autonomous network infrastructure offering seamless connectivity for the Navy’s 2nd Fleet. This initiative marks the first private 5G deployment at a South Korean naval base and sets a new precedent in military communication technologies.
Private 5G solutions are particularly vital for defense operations, which demand ultra-fast connectivity, high bandwidth, and secure communication networks to ensure seamless operation management. The implementation of a private 5G network will provide the Republic of Korea Navy with a highly dependable and secure network, significantly minimizing potential vulnerabilities.
Samsung and KT are utilizing AI-enabled technologies to ensure that the network infrastructure will support next-generation applications, improving both workplace safety and operational efficiency for the Navy. The project encompasses a sophisticated Information and Communications Technology (ICT) ecosystem, which will include 13 distinct systems, such as unmanned vehicle operations and weapons depot management.
Key use cases include:
- Digital Twin for Naval Bases: A high-definition 3D digital twin of the naval base will provide an integrated management system, offering real-time visual insights. This system will support strategy development by enhancing the base’s adaptability, efficiency, and overall resilience.
- Smart Security Monitoring: Enhanced security through real-time surveillance of naval operations, including monitoring operational forces, vehicles, weapons depots, and unmanned systems. The system will be integrated with existing video management systems (VMS) to provide a comprehensive view, improving operational responses in emergency situations.
- One-Stop Battleship Management: This system will integrate various critical components like navigation, logistics, safety, and operational monitoring into a single, user-friendly platform. By consolidating these systems, the solution aims to streamline Navy personnel’s administrative tasks, allowing them to focus more on operations.
Jun-Ho Kim, Senior Vice President and Head of KT’s Public Customer Business Unit, stated, “KT is proud to contribute to the establishment of a standardised system for the Republic of Korea Navy through the Smart Naval Port project. We believe this initiative will lay the groundwork for future naval base and battleship operations.”
Samsung will provide its end-to-end private 5G solution, including its 5G standalone (SA) Compact Core, radio systems, and network management software. The network will operate using the mid-band 4.7GHz spectrum, a frequency commonly employed for military purposes. With Samsung’s compact 5G system running on a single server, the Navy will benefit from swift deployment and simplified network operations. Furthermore, the private 5G radios will be optimized for superior uplink performance, essential for handling vast amounts of data transmitted across numerous devices.
Simon Lee, Vice President and Head of Samsung’s B2B and B2G Business Development Group, commented: “Samsung’s private 5G solutions are trusted worldwide due to their strong security, reliability, and proven expertise. We’re proud to be working with KT to deliver South Korea’s first private 5G network for a naval base. This project demonstrates our commitment to advancing 5G’s potential to meet the unique needs of every customer.”
Samsung has been actively developing private 5G networks across multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, construction, and government agencies. This partnership with KT underscores Samsung’s leadership in private 5G deployment and highlights the growing demand for specialized 5G networks in military and public sectors.
The collaboration between Samsung and KT on this Smart Naval Port project represents a significant modernization of naval operations in South Korea. By leveraging 5G technology, the Republic of Korea Navy will be able to create a safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced operational environment, positioning itself at the forefront of military innovation.
More information on the official Samsung Website here