Transforming Connectivity for a Critical Defence Operation
The Challenge
Code-named Operation Interflex, this landmark initiative has seen the British Armed Forces train more than 37,000 Ukrainian recruits, helping prepare them for frontline operations. Delivering connectivity across multiple training locations presented a significant challenge, particularly as many sites were situated in remote and rural areas with limited or no existing communications infrastructure. The scale, pace and critical nature of the programme demanded robust, secure and enterprise-grade communications that could be deployed rapidly and perform reliably in demanding environments.
With some sites requiring connectivity within days, and occasionally less than a week, UK Strategic Command turned to UK Connect Defence. Having previously demonstrated its ability to deliver high-bandwidth, mission-critical communications during the COVID-19 response and other Defence programmes, UK Connect Defence was trusted to provide a fast and effective solution.
A Rapid and Innovative Response
Working closely with UK Strategic Command, Landmarc, Defence Digital and the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), UK Connect Defence designed and deployed comprehensive WAN, LAN and security solutions across multiple training locations.
The solution combined several advanced technologies, including:
- 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA)
- Private Cellular Networks
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite Connectivity
- mmWave Wireless Links
- Site-wide Wi-Fi Infrastructure
Despite a global chipset shortage and unprecedented delivery timescales, UK Connect Defence successfully transformed sites from zero connectivity to gigabit-capable networks with complete Wi-Fi coverage in under a week. Some deployments supported more than 500 concurrent users, providing immediate access to operational systems, training platforms and welfare services.
To meet the demanding schedule, UK Connect Defence employed innovative logistics and delivery strategies, including chartering aircraft to securely transport critical hardware from the United States, coordinating closely with Landmarc and working with key technology partners to secure dedicated engineering and support resources.
Delivering Lasting Operational Impact
Today, UK Connect Defence continues to play a vital role in supporting Defence operations, ensuring personnel have reliable access to mission-critical training applications, communications platforms and welfare services. The project demonstrates UK Connect Defence’s ability to deliver resilient, secure and rapidly deployable connectivity at scale, even in the most challenging environments. Through a combination of advanced wireless technologies, agile deployment capabilities and close collaboration with Defence stakeholders, UK Connect Defence has enabled critical training operations to remain connected and operational regardless of location.
Key Outcomes:
- 37,000+ personnel supported through Operation Interflex
- Connectivity delivered to remote and infrastructure-poor locations
- Gigabit-capable networks deployed in under one week
- 100% site-wide Wi-Fi coverage at selected locations
- Support for 500+ concurrent users per site
- Secure access to critical operational, training and welfare services
- Continued support for Defence connectivity requirements nationwide
This project highlights how UK Connect Defence enables Defence organisations to maintain operational readiness through secure, resilient and rapidly deployable communications.
