Nextlink Expands Aviat Networks Agreement to Support BEAD-Funded Rural Broadband Expansion
Key Highlights
- Nextlink has secured more than $180 million in BEAD funding, in addition to $429.2 million previously awarded through the FCC's Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF).
- Nextlink plans to deploy Aviat's microwave, E-Band, and multi-band wireless transport solutions as part of its network expansion efforts.
- The initiative will help extend broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved communities across Nextlink's 12-state service area.
Aviat Networks announced that Nextlink Internet, a provider focused on serving rural commercial and residential customers across 12 states, has expanded its existing agreement with the company to support network deployment projects funded through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
Under the expanded agreement, Nextlink plans to deploy Aviat's microwave, E-Band, and multi-band wireless transport systems as part of efforts to extend broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved locations throughout its service area.
Nextlink has received more than $180 million in BEAD funding in addition to $429.2 million previously awarded through the Federal Communications Commission's Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF). The company recently activated what it describes as its first wireless tower funded through the BEAD program. The expanded agreement with Aviat is intended to support the continued buildout of Nextlink's fixed wireless and fiber-supported network infrastructure.
"Our focus is on bringing fast, reliable internet to communities across the country," said Cameron Kilton, Chief Technology Officer of Nextlink. "The BEAD program represents a historic opportunity to accelerate that mission, and we needed a technology partner with the performance and reliability to match."
"Aviat Networks has established itself as a preferred wireless transport partner for wireless internet service providers (WISPs) pursuing federal broadband funding, and we are proud to continue and deepen our partnership with Nextlink as they execute on their BEAD-funded mission to connect rural America," said Pete Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Aviat Networks.
Source: Aviat Networks, Inc.
Stay Connected with ISE Magazine
Subscribe to our newsletters and magazine for the latest telecom insights, explore the current issue for in-depth features and strategies, and register for upcoming webinars to learn directly from industry leaders.