8/14/2024 –
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is seeking comments on a significant proposal by NextNav Inc. that could reshape the 902-928 MHz band, commonly known as the Lower 900 MHz Band. This proposal has far-reaching implications for many industries, particularly those relying on critical infrastructure.
NextNav has submitted a petition for rulemaking to the FCC with two primary objectives: to reconfigure the Lower 900 MHz Band and adopting new rules to facilitate the deployment of a 5G terrestrial positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) network, which would be designed to serve as both a complement and a backup to the existing U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS).
The key points of the proposal are:
- Create a 5-megahertz uplink in the 902-907 MHz band
- Pair it with a 10-megahertz downlink in the 918-928 MHz band
- Shift remaining non-multilateration Location and Monitoring Service (non-M-LMS) licensees to the 907-918 MHz portion
- Exchange NextNav’s current M-LMS holdings for a single, nationwide 15-megahertz flexible use license
The Lower 900 MHz Band is currently used by a diverse range of operations, both federal and non-federal. Many critical infrastructure operators, including utilities, refineries, and railroads rely on this spectrum for their operations.
The FCC is now seeking comments on all aspects of NextNav’s petition. Comments are due on September 5, 2024. To file comments, visit: https://www.fcc.gov/ecfs – Reference WT Docket No. 24-240 in your submission.
If your enterprise uses the Lower 900 MHz Band, particularly if you’re involved in critical infrastructure operations, it’s crucial that you submit comments to the FCC. Your input will help shape the future of this important spectrum band.
