5G for 12 GHz Statement on National Spectrum Strategy Submission

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 17^th, 2023 – The 5G for 12 GHz Coalition today submitted comments to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s request for comment related to their National Spectrum Strategy (NSS), an initiative which plans to unify federal spectrum strategy and provide a roadmap for future allocations. Our coalition is urging the Administration to recognize the value of the 12 GHz band and to call upon other agencies, primarily the FCC, to maximize the 12 GHz band’s usage. The 12 GHz band represents 500 MHz of promising but underutilized mid-band spectrum, unencumbered by federal users. Importantly, the 12 GHz band already posses a complete technical record, which demonstrated a lack of interference with incumbents and the benefits that Americans would see from unleashing more mid-band spectrum. Unlike other bands, the 12 GHz band does not require an FCC auction – which would significantly delay the proceeding – it can be unleashed with just a regulatory decision.

The 12 GHz band not only possesses fantastic propagation characteristics, but it is also perfectly suited for spectrum sharing, the future of allocation. By unleashing the 12 GHz band for increased high-powered usage, the FCC will create a huge number of benefits for all Americans and solidify our global leadership position. The US has fallen to 13^th place globally in terms of licensed mid-band spectrum available for use, and our competitors are continuing the increase their lead. As the US is hamstrung by inaction, countries such as China have developed plans to unleash two times more mid-band spectrum, and European nations have slowly but steadily passed the US in available spectrum. Policymakers must act now in order to ensure that US global spectrum leadership remains intact.

The NTIA’s National Spectrum Strategy provides a perfect opportunity for the federal government to recognize the value of the 12 GHz band, and to officially include it in plans for the near future. As multiple technical reports have clearly demonstrated, the 12 GHz band is the answer to meeting ballooning U.S. 5G spectrum needs. With its promise to permit coexistence and its unique propagation characteristics, no other band represents the same generational opportunity to bring a strong reliable connection to all Americans.