5G Spectrum

WRC-15 key decisions on IMT allocations and use at the global level, were threefold:

• The 700 MHz band was identified for IMT use in Region 1 (Europe and Africa) and in few countries in Region 3 (Asia-Pacific).
• The 3.4-3.8 GHz band was also identified for IMT in Region 1, Region 2 (the Americas) and a number of countries in Region 3.
• Studies are ongoing on 24-86 GHz spectrum ranges for 5G use. The 25-27.5 GHz, 31.8-33.4 GHz, 37-43.5 GHz, 45.5-50.2 GHz, 50.4-52.6 GHz, 66-79 GHz and 81-86 GHz frequencies are particular targets.

WRC-19 key decisions on mmwave bands for 5G were the most important agenda item (1.13)

• WRC-19 identified in the bands 24.25-27.5 GHz, 37-43.5 GHz, 45.5-47 GHz, 47.2-48.2 GHz, 66-71 GHz for IMT
• The key issues were to decide what could be the power limits and other conditions to protect the satellite. The main issue in 24.25-27.5 GHz was the protection of Earth Exploration Satellites (EESS) in 23.6-24 GHz and Fixed Satellites (FSS) in 24.25-27.5 GHz.
• WRC-19 also agreed for very light conditions to protect FSS in 24.25-27.5 GHz from 5G base stations (5G base station of EIRP above 30 dBW/200 MHz to be selected)
• WRC-19 adopted conditions for use of 18/28 GHz spectrum for E-SIM and suitable provisions to protect terrestrial 5G and microwave links.

Identification of 3300-3400 MHz, 3600-3800 MHz, 4800-4990 MHz, 6425-7025 MHz, 7025-7125 MHz and 10-10.5 GHz bands for 4G/5G is on the WRC-23 agenda.