MARINE CORPS AIR-GROUND COMBAT CENTER, Calif. --
The Combat Center unveiled a new capability, that may change the way Marines
communicate and train for future conflicts during Service Level Training Exercise 5-24, July
13- Sept. 11, 2024.
Marine Air-Ground Task Force Training Command and Marine Corps Air Ground Combat
Center are gearing the Marine Corps toward modernization with the introduction of its
pioneering 5G training network .
“By implementing this 5G network, we are fundamentally transforming how we approach
command and control,” said Maj. Melvin Spiese, a Marine Air-Ground Task Force planner
with MAGTF-TC. “This network provides unparalleled security and connectivity, allowing us
to create training scenarios that push the boundaries of what was previously possible.”
During SLTE 5-24, the network was deployed via cost-effective refurbished Cell on Light
Trucks. Using these COLTS maximizes value, by repurposing tens of millions of dollars in
government assets for a fraction of the cost.
“Repurposing Cell on Light Trucks not only delivers substantial cost savings but also
demonstrates our commitment to utilizing existing resources efficiently,” explained Matthew
Moreno, assistant chief of staff for Communications Directorate, MAGTF-TC/MCAGCC. “By
doing so. We’re turning tens of millions of dollars in government assets into a high-value
training tool for a fraction of the original cost,”
With two COLTs currently operational, representing only 30% of the network's potential, the
goal of Moreno is to add an additional $20 million investment to expand to 11-15 permanent
sites and six deployable platforms. This expansion will establish MCAGCC as the premier
global training installation with comprehensive 5G coverage.
“Expanding our 5G infrastructure with an additional $20 million investment is a strategic
move to ensure MCAGCC remains at the forefront of military training innovation,” said
Moreno. “This expansion will allow us to provide comprehensive 5G coverage, positioning
