The FCC-Approved Ligado Network and Potential Technical Issues for DoD Use of GPS
Abstract
On April 20, 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) unanimously authorized an application by Ligado Networks LLC (Ligado) to deploy a low-power [9.8 decibel watts (dBW)]terrestrial nationwide network in the 1526-1536 MHz, 1627.5-1637.5 MHz, and 1646.5-1656.5 MHz bands [of the electromagnetic spectrum] that will primarily support Internet of Things (IoT) services. These frequency bands are traditionally used for satellite operations. The Department of Defense (DOD)opposed this decisionalong with the Departments of Homeland Security, Transportation, the Interior, and Justice; the Federal Aviation Administration; and othersdue to concerns that Ligados proposed network could interfere with signals from satellites to Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. Congress may consider the FCCs decision, as well as DOD and other federal agency concerns about the decision, as it conducts oversight of the FCC. Congress may also consider broader issues related to fifth generation (5G) mobile technologies, such as the allocation of spectrum among competing users and the impact of spectrum decisions on national security and GPS modernization.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1169911
Entities
People
- John R. Hoehn
- Kelley M . Sayler
- Stephen M. Mccall
Organizations
- Library of Congress