MetTel and TekSynap Collaborate to Enhance National Guard's Network in Tennessee
MetTel and TekSynap Collaborate to Enhance National Guard's Network in Tennessee
In an important step toward modernizing military communications, MetTel, recognized for its significant contributions in digital transformation, has joined forces with TekSynap, a well-regarded IT services provider, to overhaul the network infrastructure of the Tennessee Army National Guard (TNNG). This collaboration, valued at around $2.3 million, represents a four-year project focused on enhancing connectivity across 75 sites, benefitting more than 10,500 service members and civilian employees.
The initiative comes as the TNNG and the Department of Defense (DoD) aim to upgrade communication systems nationwide, with the Tennessee project potentially serving as a model for similar efforts in other states. The fielded enhancements will replace aging systems with cutting-edge Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) technology tailored to meet military operational needs.
Current Challenges Faced by the Tennessee Guard
The Tennessee National Guard has long faced issues stemming from outdated infrastructure that did not meet the evolving demands of modern military operations. Bandwidth limitations hindered the efficiency of various training systems and operational software applications. Moreover, expiring maintenance agreements raised security concerns. Leadership recognized the urgency of not only boosting performance but also of ensuring the necessary redundancy and fail-over capabilities essential for uninterrupted mission execution.
The Modernization Offer
The upgrade will integrate several key features designed to meet today's military standards:
- - Enhanced Security: This network will use FedRAMP-authorized components and DoD-compliant encryption to provide robust security architecture.
- - Increased Bandwidth: The revamped network will accommodate advanced situational awareness platforms, video teleconferencing systems, and cloud-based training applications.
- - Lower Latency: Improvements will eliminate delays for real-time communication between state headquarters, armories, and training locations.
- - Multi-Path Connectivity: By combining broadband and LTE functionalities along with optional Starlink satellite connectivity, the system will guarantee 99.9% uptime.
- - Cost Efficiency: Centralized management will lead to lower operational costs by phasing out expensive legacy circuits.
- - Accelerated Deployment: Managed through the Information Technology Enterprise Solutions–3 Services (ITES-3S), the upgrade will be efficiently implemented under the oversight of the U.S. Army's Computer Hardware, Enterprise Software and Solutions (CHESS) program.
Significance of the Partnership
"Reliable, secure communications support every facet of our mission," stated CW2 Brandon Johnson, Infrastructure Branch Chief for the TNNG. "This modernization not only replaces decades-old infrastructure but also builds a communication backbone suitable for our current security situation. The partnership between MetTel and TekSynap enhances our operational capacity across all 95 counties in Tennessee."
Don Parente, VP of Sales & Solution Architecture from MetTel’s Public Sector, emphasized the versatility of their SD-WAN framework. It will incorporate multiple transport options, including satellite connectivity for remote facilities, ensuring a cohesive and centrally managed network. The phased implementation starts in January 2025, with full operational capabilities anticipated by January 2026, establishing an infrastructure on par with that of active duty military setups.
Henry Tragle, SVP of Integration Services at TekSynap, pointed out that Tennessee's developments reflect the type of crucial work the company is designed to support, blending technical proficiency with a sound understanding of DoD security and compliance standards.
Together, MetTel and TekSynap demonstrate an unwavering commitment to ensuring military readiness, providing solutions that meet the stringent requirements for security, reliability, and efficiency that federal agencies demand. As these two organizations chart a path forward, the capabilities of the Tennessee Army National Guard will significantly enhance, underscoring the vital role of upgraded communication in modern military operations.
For more insights on MetTel’s initiatives, visit their official website at mettel.net, or connect with them on social media platforms including LinkedIn.
Topics Telecommunications）
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