Larsen and Gallagher Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen 5G Defense Infrastructure

Press Release

Today, Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) and Rep. Mike Gallagher (WI-08) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the 5G technology systems and infrastructure network across the Department of Defense (DoD). The DoD 5G Act requires the Secretary of Defense to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in the military's telecommunications infrastructure.

"As the U.S. continues to invest in disruptive new technologies, such as 5G, it is critical the Department of Defense identify risks and vulnerabilities in its telecommunications infrastructure," said Rep. Larsen, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee. "The DoD 5G Act ensures the DoD assesses and mitigates these risks as the department moves forward with implementation of 5G technology. I look forward to working with Rep. Gallagher to build on the work Congress has done to strengthen the 5G network."

"With the promise of 5G also comes greater risk," said Rep Gallagher. "As the Pentagon develops advanced telecommunications capabilities, it should set a clear standard and expectation across the federal government for security and resiliency, from the supply chain on up. I'm proud to partner with Rep. Larsen on this important initiative."

5G has the potential to enhance mission capabilities, but also exposes the DoD's technology network to greater risk. In June 2019, DoD's Defense Science Board Quick Task Force released a series of recommendations outlining how DoD should approach adoption of 5G network technologies. The DoD 5G Act incorporates several of the report's recommendations, including increased transparency of foreign threats to the network; secure independent analysis of technology system security; implementation of federal standards to assess 5G core service providers; and continuous independent monitoring of 5G defense data.

In January, Larsen and Gallagher supported the Secure 5G and Beyond Act, bipartisan legislation which requires the president to develop a strategy to protect 5G systems and infrastructure in the U.S. and assist protection efforts of allies and partners. The Trump administration released its 5G strategy plan in March.

For text of the DoD 5G Act, click here.

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