b'instance. The agency is rapidly developing a prototype for advancing and exploring 5G-enabled technologies to improve warehouse operations, using IoT devices and other sensors to track the supplies, among other capabilities. A fully connected smart warehouse could one day see drones perform laborious tasks, such Enhanced connectivity withas inventory, and autonomous vehicles 5G would allow a host ofhaul shipments around. processes to be automated,Similarly, interconnecting every piece of the flight linefrom the onboard including fleet managementsensors to every switch on the or the use of autonomousgroundaligns with the grand vision of Air Force leaders for what they call vehicles on the flight line. a Global Sensing Network. This was part of Tranche 1.5building out 5G infrastructure at Nevadas Nellis Air Force Base, a hub of experimentation and operational development. The next big step is a fully overhauled 21st-century smart base, with 5G fully integrated into the infrastructure from the beginning.Adopting 5G to Retain Global LeadershipThe importance of public-private partnerships takes on new meaning in terms of preparing the DOD to adopt 5G. There are coverage gaps within the DOD bases, compared to the surrounding communities outside their boundaries, Spencer says. Frankly, there are some unnecessary processes hampering access on DOD bases. And we need faster resolution. This is why its critical for the DOD and wireless carriers to work closely together to determine how to accelerate 5G adoption. A fast, wireless buildout takes 18-24 months once the project is approved and funded, Spencer says. Considering the time frame, I think the base access issues really deserve prompt action to implement 5G.12'