BT has secured a multimillion-pound contract with the British Army in the UK.

The five-year contract will see BT provide managed WiFi services to the British Army at 162 new UK Army sites.

Called MOD WiFi, the contract has the potential to extend to other customers including the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy, said BT.

This latest deal expands on the existing 200 Ministry of Defence (MoD) sites that BT’s Defence team currently manages in the UK, Cyprus, and Germany.

The telco has worked with the MoD for over a decade in supporting its WiFi network requirements.

BT said that the contract with the British Army will enable soldiers to receive better connectivity in remote base locations, while its delivery program covers all buildings in the sites being equipped, including offices, hangars, training facilities, technical accommodation, and workshops.

BT director of major government, Ed Stainton said: "The opportunities and threats posed by digital technology mean the Army needs the most reliable and secure networks possible – and we’re proud to be a trusted partner that can deliver for them. This new managed WiFi service from BT will provide important connectivity across areas of training, business, and welfare.

“Crucially, the contract will also lay the foundation for Front-Line Commands to introduce smarter ways of working, unlocking the benefits of new technologies on MOD Wi-Fi that will provide efficiencies, enhance productivity and increase security.”

The telco has previously worked with the Army to establish a smart base in Larkhill, South West England, with a digital infrastructure that incorporates fiber broadband and private 5G.

BT notes that the base utilizes technology including HD cameras and sensors, facial recognition, smart building entry and management, digital signage to relay tailored messages to different audiences, and secure printing.