Texas Tech University unveiled a new research facility on Tuesday, aimed at developing technology that transforms cellular networks into tools for object detection and monitoring the security of critical infrastructure.
The facility, named the Critical Infrastructure Telecom Ecosystem Incubator (CITEI), is situated on the Reese National Security Complex campus. It will facilitate collaboration between researchers and industry partners to test communication technologies applicable to national security areas such as border protection, remote locations, and emergency response.
Brenda Connor, the technical managing director of the Critical Infrastructure Security Institute and project lead, showcased how the technology utilizes radio signals—those that typically connect smartphones and cellular networks—to detect objects, similar to radar functions. “If that same radio wave can do both the communication and the sensing, every cell tower becomes a sensing entity,” Connor stated.
This innovative technology, referred to as integrated sensing and communications, has the potential to identify possible threats around critical facilities, such as pipelines and communication networks, according to Connor.
The CITEI project integrates technology from Nokia Federal Solutions and AT&T’s wireless network. Steve Vogelsang, chief technology officer for Nokia Federal Solutions, emphasized the importance of practical testing. “What we don’t get the opportunity to do is really get out in the field and test these capabilities in a real-world environment,” Vogelsang noted.
Tim Lake, an AT&T representative, highlighted that the technology could also support at-risk communities. He cited applications like rural search and rescue efforts or managing a command post during wildfires as potential future uses. “These are opportunities to test and refine this technology,” Lake added.
The project is funded by the Texas University Fund, which Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec said has been instrumental in enhancing the university’s research capabilities and attracting specialized faculty. “One of our responsibilities as a research institution is to make sure that the expertise that we have extends to challenges in a beneficial way beyond the confines of our campus,” Schovanec remarked.
The facility will continue to engage with industry and government partners for ongoing technology testing and to explore future applications.
