Value of Shared C-Band Spectrum in London

Satellite industry and fixed wireless executives oppose reallocation of some C-band spectrum between 3.4 and 4.2 GHz from fixed satellite and fixed wireless to mobile use, in most cases even when mobile industry advocates suggest existing C-band licensees will be protected where they have operations.

 As proposed by some mobile industry executives, C-band spectrum would be especially in urban areas, to support operation of small cells. From a satellite industry perspective, losing any capacity to mobile is important because it is viewed as a precedent that eventually could lead to loss of even more potential satellite spectrum.

 Mobile interests of course emphasize the value of shared use in those bands, representing a maximum of 320 MHz of new capacity in the city of London, for example. “Avoided cost” drives sizable financial benefits, a study conducted for the GSMA by Plum Consulting suggests.