By Jesse Caulfield, CEO, Key Bridge Wireless LLC October 1, 2023
As we reflect on the conclusion of Project NSC-20-2093, the Dynamic Spectrum Sharing 5G Applications Prototype, it is with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude that we mark the end of this significant effort under the Department of Defense's "5G – Next G" program.
Initiated to explore coexistence between critical airborne radar systems and 5G networks in the 3.1-3.45 GHz band at Hill Air Force Base and the Utah Test and Training Range, the project advanced successfully through Phases 1 and 2. While our success proved technical feasibility and military utility of dynamic spectrum sharing in this challenging environment, the Emerging Mid-Band Radar Spectrum Sharing (EMBRSS) Feasibility Assessment, completed in September 2023, provided important insights into the broader challenges and conditions required for sharing in this band, informing national spectrum policy and contributing to the project's wind-down.
Throughout this initiative, Key Bridge Wireless LLC delivered several key technologies to the government, which we believe will contribute meaningfully to the state-of-the-art in spectrum sharing and incumbent protection:
AWACS Radar Signal Recognizer: A compiled software package featuring a neural network for near-instantaneous detection, identification, and characterization of AWACS-like radar pulses. Optimized for real-time execution on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computers with low-cost Nvidia GPUs running Ubuntu 20.04 Linux, or resource-constrained embedded platforms. Includes a Python script and Jupyter notebook with sample datasets for integration and demonstration.
Libraries to Generate a Radar Signal Recognizer: A repeatable deep-learning process encapsulated in three standardized software libraries. These enable the reliable creation of generic artificial neural network-based radar signal recognizers, standardizing substeps for broader application.
Library to Communicate with Nokia RIC: A standardized software library facilitating reliable interaction with the Nokia scheduler via the OpenRAN RIC-based Xf interface.
Prototype SAS: A comprehensive set of Java and Python applications and libraries serving as a sophisticated test harness for high-level interaction with the Radio Access Network (RAN). This prototype enables arbitrary manual and automated RAN mediation, distinct from our commercial SAS product.
These deliverables underscore our focus on advanced machine learning, open standards, and robust interference mitigation—principles central to protecting incumbent operations while enabling efficient spectrum utilization.
We extend our deepest thanks to NTIA-ITS, the Air Force, the dedicated personnel at Hill AFB, the National Spectrum Consortium, project principals, and all collaborating partners—including Nokia, MITRE, AFRL, and NIWC—for their expertise, support, and commitment throughout the project. This collaboration was instrumental in achieving successful Phase 2 field trials and advancing technical feasibility.
In particular, I want to recognize Nick Kowalchuk for his outstanding professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and practical common sense. His steady guidance as Agreements Officer Representative helped navigate complex administrative and technical challenges, ensuring the project's integrity and progress at every step.
At Key Bridge Wireless LLC, our commitment to incumbent protection remains unwavering, particularly in support of national security priorities. We will continue to innovate in dynamic spectrum access technologies that balance defense requirements with emerging wireless needs.
Jesse Caulfield CEO, Key Bridge Wireless LLC jesse.caulfield@keybridgewireless.com