Samsung and KT Partner to Build Korea’s First Private 5G Network for Navy’s Smart Naval Port

Samsung Electronics and KT Corporation have been selected to build a private 5G network for the Republic of Korea Navy’s ‘Smart Naval Port’ project. It is the first deployment of its kind at a Korean naval base to enhance battleship and base operation support capabilities while strengthening overall defense measures.

The project will be completed by December 2025 and will establish a more advanced and fully independent 5G network. Samsung and KT’s collaboration will help the Navy modernize its operations and strengthen security through improved connectivity and intelligent solutions.

Samsung and KT began collaborating on the ‘Smart Naval Port’ project in the summer of 2024, with plans to complete the deployment by December 2025. The project aims to establish a smarter and fully independent 5G network infrastructure, ensuring seamless coverage and enhanced connectivity for the Republic of Korea Navy’s 2nd Fleet.

Private 5G solutions are important to national defense sectors, providing ultra-fast speeds and hyper-connected communication systems essential for secure and efficient operation management. The private network will be dedicated to the Navy, boosting security, reducing vulnerabilities, and supporting the smooth operation of critical military functions.

As part of this initiative, Samsung and KT will leverage AI-powered solutions to enhance workplace safety and operational efficiency. They plan to implement a comprehensive Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure comprising 13 systems, ranging from uncrewed vehicle operation to armory and ammunition depot management

The project also introduces intelligent security monitoring, incorporating real-time video control, surveillance drones, and advanced camera systems for base defense. Additionally, a one-stop battleship operation management system will streamline navigation, logistics, and safety management, optimizing operational efficiency for Navy personnel.

Samsung‘s compact Private 5G solution, designed to run on a single server, will simplify deployments and streamline operations for the Republic of Korea Navy. 

This infrastructure allows for faster installations and reduced operational complexity. Additionally, Samsung’s private 5G radios, optimized for uplink performance, will enable government agencies to transmit large volumes of data across multiple devices simultaneously, ensuring smooth communication and data management.

The Navy’s 5G network will integrate a digital twin of the naval base, providing a three-dimensional, high-definition digital replica for more effective management and strategic decision-making. 

Simon Lee, Vice President and Head of B2B·B2G Business Development at Samsung Electronics, emphasized the company’s proven expertise in deploying private 5G networks across various sectors, including military, government, and healthcare. “In collaboration with KT, we are excited to implement Korea’s first Private 5G network at a naval base,” Lee said.