Munich and Espoo 14-Dec-2023
Nokia Drone Networks launch in North America following successful collaboration with Rohde & Schwarz to secure FCC certification. (Image: Rohde & Schwarz)
Nokia and Rohde & Schwarz today announced that the Nokia Drone Networks solution has been certified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This marks the agency’s first full certification of a native 4G/5G drone-in-a-box solution. The achievement represents a significant step in providing U.S. customers a proven, industrial-grade 4G/5G drone solution built for reliable Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. Going forward, Nokia will leverage its recently announced U.S. partnerships for private LTE and 5G solutions to accelerate the market entry.
Drawing on an extensive history in telecom, Nokia prioritized robust and reliable connectivity in the Nokia Drone Networks solution. Highly resilient connectivity is critical to remote drone operation, real-time streaming of data collected during a drone mission, and BVLOS operation using a large set of 3GPP spectrum bands. Research and development efforts have pushed the boundaries in terms of RF design and connectivity performance. Innovative features such as full network connection redundancy, multi-operator support and hot failover also differentiate Nokia Drone Networks in terms of operational reliability.
Nokia and Rohde & Schwarz originally joined forces in 2022 with an MoU to embed Rohde & Schwarz QualiPoc 4.9G/LTE and 5G network measurement capabilities into the Nokia Drone Networks platform, a first of its kind solution that expands use cases for customers with deeper knowledge around wireless network coverage and performance for more efficient utilization of their networks.
Extending the cooperation to device testing and certification, Nokia collaborated with Rohde & Schwarz to complete the FCC’s rigorous requirements for R&D component testing. The R&S CMX500 radio communication tester from Rohde & Schwarz was utilized in the Nokia Bell Labs Global Product and Compliance Laboratory for extensive radiated and conducted emissions testing. The rich tool set of the R&S CMX500 and the flexible web-based R&S CMsquares user interface were instrumental in conducting comprehensive signaling protocol tests.
Olaf Heisch, Director Target Accounts Mobile Network Testing at Rohde & Schwarz, said: “This achievement underscores the transformative capabilities of our Radio Communication Tester R&S CMX500. Its role in securing FCC certification for Nokia Drone Networks is a testament to its pivotal position in driving innovation in the 5G and drone technology landscape. This collaboration highlights the power of cutting-edge technology and strategic partnerships in shaping the future of the industry.”
Thomas Eder, Head of Embedded Wireless Solutions, Nokia, said: “This achievement highlights the vital role that collaboration and diligent testing play in the 5G era. By meeting the FCC’s rigorous standards, we are shaping the path in the U.S. for industrial and public sector use cases, improved 5G spectrum monetization, and the nationwide roll-out of drones for BVLOS operations on 3GPP spectrum. With more than 675 private wireless customers worldwide and leadership in building nationwide wireless networks, Nokia is well positioned to expand its market leadership into the U.S. with a certified industrial grade drone-in-a-box solution.”
Resources and additional information
Press & media contact
Christian MokryPR Manager Test & measurement
+49 89 412913052
press@rohde-schwarz.com
More information
Rohde & Schwarz
Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company's leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 14,400 employees worldwide.
R&S® is a registered trademark of Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG.
About Nokia
At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.
As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs.
Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.
Media inquiries to Nokia Communications, Corporate: Press.Services@nokia.com
