United States of America is expanding flexible use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz upper C-band spectrum to support next-generation wireless services, enabling new applications and improving spectrum efficiency for 5G wireless devices, mobile broadband terminals, and satellite internet terminals
US Opens More Airwaves for 5G and Mobile Broadband
New spectrum rules require licensees to cover migration costs and protect aircraft systems.
Spectrum allocation
What changed
160 MHz of spectrum opened for 5G wireless devices and mobile broadband in the 3.98–4.2 GHz band.
Cost reimbursement required from new licensees to incumbent Fixed Satellite Service for migration costs.
Aircraft rebates mandated to eligible owners for FAA radio altimeter retrofit compliance.
Competitive bidding established for at least 100 MHz of spectrum with auction completion by July 4, 2027.
Who it affects
New spectrum licensees must reimburse incumbents and provide aircraft rebates.
5G wireless providers can access the expanded 3.7–4.14 GHz service band.
Aircraft operators become eligible for altimeter retrofit rebates.
What to do
Participate in competitive bidding for 100 MHz of spectrum by July 4, 2027.
Reimburse Fixed Satellite Service licensees for migration costs.
Provide rebates to eligible aircraft owners for altimeter retrofits.
Key dates
Sources
- WTO TBT notification 26-04459 — United States of America https://members.wto.org/crnattachments/2026/TBT/USA/26_04459_00_e.pdf
- Upper C-Band (3.98-4.2 GHz); Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band https://docs.wto.org/imrd/directdoc.asp?DDFDocuments/T/G/TBTN25/USA2252A1C1.docx
- Upper C-Band (3.98-4.2 GHz); Expanding Flexible Use of the 3.7 to 4.2 GHz Band https://docs.wto.org/imrd/directdoc.asp?DDFDocuments/T/G/TBTN25/USA2252A1.docx