Verizon THOR: Rapid Humanitarian Response Vehicle Demo

Global Heat and Increasing Disaster Response Needs

Escalating global temperatures are dramatically increasing the frequency, magnitude, and intricacy of disasters occurring worldwide. Recent weeks have witnessed unprecedented heat in the U.S. Pacific Northwest, resulting in hundreds of fatalities – with further heat events anticipated.

Challenges for Critical Infrastructure

A surge in heat waves, wildfires, hurricanes, typhoons, and other weather-related disasters presents substantial obstacles for infrastructure providers. Energy utilities and telecommunications companies must maintain near-perfect uptime for their customers, even amidst exceptionally challenging conditions.

Introducing Verizon’s THOR Vehicle

In response to these challenges, Verizon – the parent company of TechCrunch – has announced the initial demonstration unit of its THOR vehicle. Standing for Tactical Humanitarian Operations Response, THOR is engineered to deliver robust and mobile connectivity to first responders and affected citizens.

The vehicle leverages wireless technologies, including 5G Ultra Wideband and satellite uplinks, to ensure reliable communication.

Development and Demonstration

This prototype was developed in collaboration with the Department of Defense’s NavalX and the SoCal Tech Bridge. It was unveiled last week at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, located north of San Diego.

Beyond Connectivity: Drone Capabilities

THOR’s capabilities extend beyond wireless connectivity. The vehicle is designed to potentially deploy various drone functionalities.

• Drones can be utilized for search and rescue operations.
• They can also assist firefighters by providing real-time intelligence on wildfire progression.

Industry-Wide Resiliency Investments

As previously discussed, telecommunications companies like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile are increasing investments in resiliency initiatives. These range from the rapid deployment of mobile wireless equipment to innovative solutions like AT&T’s FirstNet One, an airship designed to provide wireless services near disaster areas.

The Rise of “DisasterTech”

“DisasterTech,” a term used to describe this growing field, is attracting increasing attention from investors and companies of all sizes. Governments, the private sector, insurers, and individuals are all being compelled to address and respond to the intensifying global storm patterns.

The need for effective disaster response technologies is becoming increasingly critical.