AT&T has struck an agreement worth $2 billion to improve the US First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet).

The carrier, along with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) at the US Department of Commerce, announced the additional investment this week.

FirstNet operates a network for first responders. AT&T won the 25-year contract to build the federal emergency network back in 2017.

The first responder network was formed after strong calls for a nationwide broadband system came after the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

As part of the agreement that was announced this week, AT&T agreed to invest approximately $1 billion in new network and coverage enhancements.

The carrier also agreed that it will help to reduce costs borne by FirstNet by roughly $1bn, with this being used to further invest in the network buildout. According to the Department of Commerce, this framework will help promote the accelerated buildout of the Dedicated Public Safety 5G Core.  

“I am proud to have secured $2 billion in improved value for our nation’s first responders by renegotiating the framework for AT&T’s FirstNet contract - this is a great example of Commerce delivering the Benefit of the Bargain for public safety,” said US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

The agreement comes after US President Donald Trump's executive order last year, which, as the NTIA claims, has enabled federal agencies to review contracts to ensure they are delivering maximum value for taxpayers.

“This agreement-in-principle, created with the Department of Commerce and NTIA, reflects AT&T’s ongoing dedication to our public-private partnership with the FirstNet Authority and public safety,” added Wes Anderson, president of public sector, AT&T.

“Today’s announcement illustrates once again, as with prior modifications, our continued commitment to invest in public safety communications. Our dedication to supporting public safety’s vital mission remains unmatched, and we look forward to our continued work with the Department, NTIA, the FirstNet Authority, and the public safety community in advancing it.”

Sheriff Adkinson, acting FirstNet board chair, said the investment is a "transformative moment for FirstNet."

Separately last month, AT&T revealed that it will invest $250 billion over the next five years in its network ahead of the next era of connected innovation, which will likely be defined by AI.