AT&T: FirstNet and AT&T announces $8 billion investment

US operator AT&T and the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet) have announced a ten-year, $8 billion investment to expand and upgrade the nationwide public safety network. 

FirstNet will invest $6.3 billion through its network contract with AT&T and "anticipates an additional $2 billion" for ongoing investments in coverage enhancements for public safety. According to AT&T, the next phase of FirstNet will include the addition of 1,000 purpose-built FirstNet cell sites within the next two years.

"Our partnership with the federal government has given us the distinct privilege of delivering America's public safety network. FirstNet is critical infrastructure that is reliably connecting those who tirelessly protect and serve," said Jim Bugel, president of FirstNet, AT&T.

"With 5G, public safety will unlock new and innovative tools to keep them mission-ready — and we aren't stopping there. Together with the FirstNet Authority, we will continue to expand and enhance public safety’s network based on their feedback, giving them the solutions and connectivity they need, both now and in the future."