MetTel and TekSynap announced two separate network modernization efforts for Army National Guard units in Tennessee and Georgia, using Software-Defined Wide Area Network (SD-WAN) technology to replace aging communications infrastructure and improve connectivity, security, and reliability at Guard facilities.
Both projects are positioned as part of broader Defense Department efforts to modernize National Guard communications, with MetTel and TekSynap emphasizing the operational need for upgraded bandwidth, redundancy, and security protections.
Tennessee Army National Guard: 4-year, $2.3M engagement across 75 facilities
In Tennessee, MetTel and TekSynap said they are executing a four-year engagement valued at approximately $2.3 million to overhaul the Tennessee Army National Guard (TNNG) network across 75 facilities supporting more than 10,500 service members and civilian personnel.
According to the release, the modernization effort replaces end-of-life systems with SD-WAN technology designed for military operational requirements. The companies said the Tennessee Guard faced increasing strain from limited bandwidth, expiring maintenance agreements, and infrastructure that could not support current training systems and operational applications.
The updated network is expected to include:
- Security architecture featuring FedRAMP-authorized components and DoD-compliant encryption.
- Expanded bandwidth supporting situational awareness platforms, VTC systems, and cloud-based training applications.
- Reduced latency for real-time communications linking state headquarters, armories, and training centers.
- Multi-path connectivity combining broadband and LTE, with Starlink satellite available as an additional option, ensuring 99.9% uptime.
- Cost efficiency through centralized management and elimination of expensive legacy circuits
- Accelerated deployment via Information Technology Enterprise Solutions–3 Services (ITES-3S) contracting managed by the U.S. Army’s Computer Hardware, Enterprise Software and Solutions (CHESS) program.
The companies stated implementation began in January 2025, with full operational capability targeted for January 2026.
Georgia Army National Guard: 3-year SD-WAN modernization contract extended through 2028
In Georgia, MetTel and TekSynap announced a separate contract to modernize communications infrastructure for the Georgia Army National Guard, also transitioning the Guard to SD-WAN and replacing outdated systems.
The release described the project as originally awarded as a one-year engagement, then extended into a three-year contract running through 2028. The companies said the existing Georgia Guard network relied on aging equipment and expiring contracts that were no longer aligned with modern operational demands.
The Georgia deployment includes:
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SD-WAN modernization with upgraded bandwidth and reliability
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MetTel broadband and LTE infrastructure nationwide, with Starlink satellite available as a backup option
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Enhanced Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) capabilities
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DoD-compliant security protocols
TekSynap highlighted acquisition support and contracting expertise for the Georgia work, including use of ITES-3S through the Army’s CHESS program, while MetTel pointed to its managed network services background.
(AI was used in part to facilitate this announcement.)
