DISH plans to release a Request for Information and Request for Proposal (RFI/RFP) for Telecom Transport Services in the coming weeks as the company prepares to build a virtualized, standalone 5G broadband network.
The Telecom Transport Services RFI/RFP, the fifth in a series of RFPs for different elements of the national network, will include requests for telecom transport service companies to facilitate lit and dark fiber connectivity to cell towers, buildings and data centers.
DISH Executive Vice President of Wireless Operations Jeff McSchooler said: "We're building a 5G network from the ground up, with the opportunity to apply fresh ideas and new partners. We're seeking input from local and regional telecom transport partners, as well as the national providers that have supported our existing video business for decades. We see an opportunity to learn from nontraditional partners as well, like utilities and municipalities that may be deploying fiber in their communities. We are exploring varying transport infrastructures to support our aggressive buildout."
DISH has committed to building a standalone 5G wireless network available to at least 70% of the U.S. population by June 2023.
The Telecom Transport Services RFI/RFP is the fifth such document DISH has issued since last July as it pursues its 5G buildout.