Verizon Business and Virginia International Terminals, LLC (VIT) have entered into an agreement to build a private 5G Ultra Wideband network at one of the Port of Virginia’s major container terminals.
Virginia International Terminals (VIT) is one of the most technologically advanced container terminal operators in the world and will use the network to explore the use of autonomous over-the-road trucks to access the terminal to drop-off and pick-up shipping containers.
It should be noted that the On Site 5G private network installation is scalable and also enables VIT to replace WiFi with secure, private 5G connectivity throughout the Virginia International Gateway facility.
“Seaports provide some of the best possible examples of the power of private 5G, with uses spanning autonomous vehicles, connected heavy equipment, and secure, real-time tracking and logistics, among many others,” said Sowmyanarayan Sampath, CEO of Verizon Business.
“That’s why On Site 5G is ideal for innovative partners like Virginia International Terminals. It puts a wide range of 5G capabilities on offer, from data-intensive, high-bandwidth industrial needs to secure, reliable broadband for everyday business,” he added.
This is Verizon Business’ second agreement with a major international port and its first with a US-based terminal.
“Verizon’s On Site 5G private network is right for us because it’s flexible, scalable, and powerful enough for both industrial outdoor use and office broadband,” said Rich Ceci, SVP of technology and projects, VIT.
“The development of autonomous vehicles technology applied to over-the-road trucks has significant environmental impacts, and addresses a major shortfall of truck drivers that is currently plaguing the transportation industry. We view Verizon as the premier 5G supplier in the market and are excited to be working with them,” he concluded.
