5G network provider Oceus is progressing in its supply of AR and VR capabilities to the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD), under the department’s 5G to Next G program.

Oceus was first awarded the contract with the DOD in April, providing design, engineering, installation and sustainment support for a cellular communication system over a 10-year period, in a contract worth $84 million. With Phase 1 complete, Oceus has received approval for Phases II and III. 

Under the program, Oceus has developed several solutions that integrate into a 3GPP-compliant 5G Developmental Core Network, working as part of a mobile Cell on Wheels system used to carry out live testing and demonstrations for the department.

“This partnership provides the AR/VR program the ability to achieve their testing objectives and plan for transition to operational use objectives,” said Jeff Harman, Oceus president and CEO.

Oceus provides edge computing capabilities with low latency, ultra-high reliability and enhanced security for wireless IoT devices and applications. The group’s Intelligent Controller provides software-defined network orchestration using AI/ML to automate the management of 5G systems and applications.

The DOD 5G to Next G program was established earlier this year to accelerate the adoption of 5G in the defense sector, to give troops the capacity to remain connected wherever they are.