Eutelsat Welcomes FCC Upper C-Band Transition as Major Step for U.S. Satellite Industry Eutelsat welcomes the Federal Communications Commission’s latest order as a major step for the U.S. satellite industry. FCC Upper C-Band transition provides a regulatory framework for spectrum reallocation with the intent to preserve reliable satellite services. In addition, the FCC Upper C-Band transition provides a structured process to enable advanced wireless expansion while not interfering with existing satellite operations.
The order details the reallocation of 160 MHz of Upper C-Band spectrum to improve next-generation wireless connectivity across the United States. At the same time, it protects vital satellite infrastructure that enables critical communications across many industries. Under the existing framework of the FCC, this will lead to a coordinated transition over the coming years for incumbent satellite operators.
The decision also provides satellite providers and telecommunications companies with long-term regulatory certainty. It also addresses the ever-increasing wireless spectrum requirements and continued delivery of reliable satellite connectivity services.
Eutelsat will receive total incentive payments of $504 million (€443 million) before tax under the terms of the FCC order. Such payments are still subject to the successful completion of the transition within the two deadlines set. The company expects to get the incentive payments in 2031. In addition, the FCC framework guarantees that Eutelsat will be fully reimbursed for all eligible costs incurred in the transition to the Upper C-Band. This lets the company focus on the migration effort, while still providing customers with uninterrupted service.
FCC framework promotes wireless expansion, satellite continuity
Today’s decision by the FCC will pave the way for the expansion of advanced wireless services across the United States. It also protects the continued operation of satellite networks providing broadcast, enterprise, government and connectivity services across the country. The regulatory framework also encourages close cooperation between satellite operators, regulators, customers and other industry participants. Therefore, each step of the transition can be done smoothly with less operational risk.
Eutelsat confirmed it will be working closely with the FCC, customers and other relevant stakeholders during the implementation process. Also, the company is looking to provide a seamless transfer with zero interruptions in satellite services at each stage of the spectrum migration. The Upper C-Band transition is a step to address the growing demand for spectrum resources as 5G networks and other advanced wireless technologies proliferate. But maintaining existing satellite capabilities is equally important to support critical communications infrastructure. The FCC framework delivers on both priorities, providing additional spectrum while protecting satellite operations. As a result, the telecommunications and satellite industries can continue to support digital transformation across the United States.
Eutelsat promises a smooth implementation process
The change will be implemented over a number of years through detailed planning and industry co-ordination, in stages. Eutelsat will continue to provide reliable satellite services throughout this period whilst completing all required migration activities. This structured approach to implementation also minimizes disruption to existing customers and service providers. Furthermore, the reimbursement mechanism provides operators a way to recover transition costs as per regulatory requirements.
Jean-François Fallacher, Chief Executive Officer of Eutelsat, said: “We welcome the order published by the FCC, representing an important milestone for the U.S. satellite and telecommunications industries. It establishes a clear framework that enables additional spectrum to be made available for advanced wireless services while safeguarding the continuity of satellite operations. Eutelsat is committed to working with the FCC and other stakeholders to ensure the transition is executed in a timely manner which is seamless for customers.”
The FCC’s latest order represents an important development for both the satellite and telecommunications industries. Ultimately, the framework supports future wireless innovation while preserving the reliability of satellite infrastructure that millions of users continue to depend upon.
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News Source: Businesswire.com
