Wire · regulatory
FCC Releases Draft Order to Initiate Upper C-Band Transition
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Fusion42 · 10 July 2026 · Fusion42 review
The FCC released a draft order on 1 July 2026 to reallocate 160 MHz of Upper C-band spectrum (3.98–4.2 GHz) for terrestrial wireless use via competitive auction, establishing a harmonised 440 MHz band and a mandatory transition framework for incumbent satellite operators by end-2030. The order fulfils Congressional direction and projects $264 billion in GDP gains and 1.5 million new jobs.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Cloud Infrastructure.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
If you build or operate satellite earth stations or FSS networks in the contiguous US, your spectrum home is being sold to wireless carriers—and you have until end-2030 to migrate, with reimbursement capped and tied to transition deadlines. If you make radio altimeters, the FAA retrofit schedule now has a hard date, and the FCC's rebate programme defines who pays for your upgrade.
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1 source · 9 Jul 2026
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