#United States #Plano #Open RAN #Fortress Solutions #Airspan Networks

Fortress Solutions Completes First O-RAN Radio Unit in the U.S.

Fortress Solutions has recently marked a significant milestone in telecommunications innovation by completing its first O-RAN radio unit designed and assembled in the U.S. as part of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Public Wireless Supply Chain Innovation Fund (PWSCIF) NOFO 2 program. This achievement highlights Fortress's commitment to advancing the development of U.S.-based Open RAN technologies.

In 2024, Airspan Networks was awarded a grant of $42.7 million under the NTIA's Innovation Fund Round 2 program which is focused on promoting the development of interoperability standards-based Open RAN radio units (RUs). The initiative aims at enhancing performance, extending band support, and boosting U.S. manufacturing through applied research, product development, and early-stage commercialization processes.

Initially, Fortress Solutions was contracted primarily for component procurement, assembly of the radio units, and validation testing. However, its pivotal role has expanded significantly to encompass:

• - Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Design and Fabrication: Developing the physical components of the radio unit to ensure high-quality manufacturing standards.
• - Software and Firmware Development: Creating software solutions that support validation testing and enhance operational capabilities of the radio units.
• - Engineering Failure Analysis: Conducting thorough analyses to identify potential failures and implementing engineering change orders to improve product reliability.
• - PCB Test Plan Development: Establishing a comprehensive test plan for PCBs to ensure they meet the performance standards required for the Open RAN units.
• - Unit Assembly and Validation Testing: Overseeing the assembly process and conducting final tests to validate overall functionality and performance of the units.

The completion of this O-RAN radio unit, entirely designed and assembled in the United States, reflects the agility and rapid progress of the Fortress Solutions team. This radio unit is set to undergo further evaluations in line with NTIA's program milestones and will pave the way for more Open RAN radio units to be developed under the NOFO 2 program.

John Shelnutt, CEO of Fortress Solutions, expressed pride in this accomplishment, stating, "Completing the first O-RAN radio unit is a major achievement for both Fortress Solutions and Airspan, as well as a significant step toward U.S.-based Open RAN innovation. Our comprehensive engineering and integration capabilities facilitate quicker development cycles and deeper technical collaboration, which are crucial for a secure and resilient wireless ecosystem."

Glenn Laxdal, CEO of Airspan, acknowledged the strength of their partnership, emphasizing their shared commitment to promoting Open RAN technology in the U.S. He remarked, "With the backing of the NTIA Innovation Fund, we are in a position to develop high-performance, next-gen radio units that will enhance interoperability and capabilities for 5G networks and beyond."

The ongoing collaboration between Fortress Solutions and Airspan also strengthens national objectives surrounding wireless innovation in the U.S., setting a robust foundation for the future of Open RAN technologies.

These groundbreaking O-RAN radio units will be showcased at the upcoming Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, taking place from March 2-5, 2026, providing an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to engage with the latest advancements in wireless technology.

For more information on the NTIA Innovation Fund and the NOFO 2 program, visit the official NTIA website. For updates on Airspan and its initiatives, check their official website as well.

Fortress Solutions offers a wide range of end-to-end services that assist organizations in building, deploying, and maintaining critical infrastructure. Their expertise ranges from network deployment and logistics to repair, integration, and lifecycle management,
ensuring reliability and efficiency in a technology-driven environment.

Airspan, based in Plano, Texas, specializes in innovative wireless network solutions, delivering high-grade 5G connectivity and advanced wireless solutions to various sectors, including mobile network operators and public organizations. Through its extensive portfolio, it focuses on enhancing capabilities and coverage across public and private networks, further pushing the envelope in modern telecommunications.