Using LTE for public protection and disaster relief (PPDR) services has been much hyped in recent years, giving the impression that deployment is imminent. In fact a complete transition is likely to take a decade, even in first mover countries like the USA, UK, and South Korea. Read more...

France's four main mobile network operators (MNOs) have all started testing 5G in the 3.5 GHz band, and consultations are underway on the 26 GHz band. The government's "new deal" with the MNOs has been hailed as an innovative way to improve 4G coverage. Consolidation remains a strong possibility. Read more...

UK regulator Ofcom and the UK's four mobile network operators are actively preparing for the 5G era. Despite a series of legal challenges, Ofcom has now auctioned the 2.3 and 3.4 GHz bands. The 700 MHz band is due to be auctioned (lawyers permitting) by 2020. Read more...

This note looks at agenda items contained under Chapters 4, 5, and 6 of the Conference Preparatory Meeting (CPM) report, focussing on additional spectrum for the control and tracking of satellites; protecting data uplinks from ocean buoys and weather stations; accommodating the new Global Maritime Distress Safety Systems; and making an amateur… Read more...