Open RAN brings multi-vendor diversity and interoperability to mobile/cellular networks. It is becoming part of governmental strategies for diversifying telecoms supply chains. This paper describes the approach and key achievements of the BEACON-5G project, jointly funded by the UK government and industry. The BEACON-5G project aims at developing a competitive edge for 5G Open RAN and contributing toward its maturity. It addresses some of the key challenges in this respect and provides various innovations for system integration, network slicing, marketplace integration, cyber security, and white-box RAN. It also conducts real-world technology trials for urban use-cases. The paper also captures some of the key lessons learned during delivery, the main outcomes, and highlights potential impact on the wider UK 5G diversification strategy.

翻译：开放无线接入网（Open RAN）为移动/蜂窝网络带来了多供应商多样性与互操作性，正成为各国实现电信供应链多元化战略的重要组成部分。本文阐述了由英国政府与产业界联合资助的BEACON-5G项目的技术路线与关键成果。该项目致力于构建5G开放无线接入网的竞争优势，推动其技术成熟，针对系统集成、网络切片、市场整合、网络安全及白盒无线接入网（白盒RAN）等核心挑战提出多项创新方案，并开展了面向城市应用场景的真实环境技术试验。文章同时总结了项目实施过程中的关键经验教训、主要产出及其对英国5G多元化战略产生的潜在影响。