SIA Media Statement Regarding FCC Spectrum Frontiers Rulemaking

July 14, 2016

The Satellite Industry Association today released the following statement concerning the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rulemaking regarding the future deployment of “5G” wireless services in spectrum bands above 24 GHz.

“SIA recognizes the FCC’s efforts to address some of the significant concerns of the satellite industry about the potential for interference to existing and planned satellite systems in the frequency bands planned for shared use between 5G terrestrial and satellite services,” said Tom Stroup, President of SIA. “SIA is also encouraged by the provisions pertaining to earth stations operating in the 28 GHz band but still has concerns regarding potential aggregate interference. We look forward to working with the FCC further and appreciate the Commission’s willingness to revisit this issue as needed. There are many sophisticated technical issues posed by this rulemaking, and we are eager to fully evaluate the rules that have been adopted.”

“Satellite currently plays an integral role in the delivery of wireless broadband technologies by serving millions of U.S. customers, including in underserved and unserved areas of the country. The industry also looks forward to providing a similarly crucial role in bringing 5G services to all Americans.”