5G for 12 GHz Coalition Calls on FCC to Act Swiftly on Record Showing Robust Engineering Data, Public Support for Unleashing 12 GHz Band for 5G

In reply comments filed with the Commission, the 33-Member Coalition cites strong evidence of feasibility for coexistence in the band and overwhelming public interest, economic, global leadership benefits.

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 7, 2021 – The 5G for 12 GHz Coalition today urged quick action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on its proceeding to unleash the power of 5G by making the 12 GHz band available for terrestrial wireless services, pointing to the overwhelming support in the record from across public interest groups, experts and technical data showing coexistence feasibility. In reply comments filed at the Commission, the Coalition underscored the undeniable support for maximizing this critical 500 MHz of mid-band spectrum for its full use, securing enormous benefits in the form of U.S. global leadership, a strong 5G economy, enhanced competition, and a significant step towards closing the digital divide.

“Today marks a critical inflection point for our country and for this Commission as they determine America’s 5G future,” Co-Chair Chip Pickering said. “The record is robust, and it is clear: the 12 GHz spectrum band can and must be expanded for terrestrial use for two-way communications while protecting incumbents. This action — which could immediately achieve immense win-win benefits for America’s security and economic posture and for consumers — is supported not only by our robust, diverse Coalition, but by experts in FCC proceedings, leaders across industry, and the Public Interest Organizations. As they put it best, ‘the Commission does not need to adopt an either/or approach to the 12 GHz band. Instead, it should adopt policies that allow both mobile and satellite providers to access the spectrum they need to compete.’ The Coalition urges the FCC to take this approach.”

As reflected by the record, not only is expanding the 12 GHz band technically feasible, but it is instrumental to advancing the public interest. From establishing the 5G economy, to creating jobs, to helping advance the FCC’s goal of closing the digital divide, this currently underused, critical spectrum has vast potential that can be realized without delay upon the Commission updating its rules. While U.S. leaders have taken significant steps to advance technological innovation and leadership over competitors, these policies and funding are hindered by current constraints on critical spectrum capacity.

“This single policy change has the power to propel the United States into global 5G leadership, which would achieve many of the shared goals of this Commission and local and federal leaders across the nation like enhancing broadband access, lowering costs for hardworking families, and helping our students succeed,” Co-Chair Joe Lockhart said. “At a time when Washington often divides on party lines, this NPRM offers an opportunity to link arms on smart policies that put the American people first, regardless of where they live. We cannot afford to miss this opportunity.”  

In its filing, the Coalition underscored findings in two significant technical analyses – an RKF Engineering Solutions study submitted by RS Access and a DBS study submitted by DISH – clearly demonstrating that the shared use of this band is possible. As the only newly commissioned technical analysis submitted in the record, the RKF Engineering study definitively refutes any claims that coexistence cannot be achieved without interference.

The Coalition calls on the FCC to consider the facts in the record and act on its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Expanding Flexible Use of the 12.2-12.7 GHz Band, et al., WT Docket No. 20-443, et al) to allow the 12 GHz band to unlock the power of 5G for all Americans.

The 5G for 12 GHz Coalition includes the following group of 33 diverse members:  INCOMPAS, Public Knowledge, DISH, Computer & Communications Industry Association (CCIA), RS Access, Open Technology Institute at New America (OTI), Federated Wireless, A-Side, Airspan, Altiostar, AtLink, Cambridge Broadband Network Groups (CBNG), Center for Educational Innovations, Center for Rural Strategies, Dell Technologies, Etheric Networks, GeoLinks, GoLong Wireless, Granite Telecommunications, Mavenir, mmWave Tech, MVD Number 53 Partners, NextLink, Resound Networks, Rise Broadband, Rural Wireless Association (RWA), Telnet Worldwide, Tilson, VMware, WeLink, White Cloud, Xiber and X-Lab.  

For more information, visit 5Gfor12GHZ.com and read our five Guiding Principles here.

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For interview or other requests for the Coalition and its members, please contact LindseeGentry@rational360.com.