Eutelsat Tells FCC That C-Band Clearing Framework 'Long Overdue'

The C-band accelerated clearing Phase II certification framework "is long overdue," with multiple satellite operators having wrapped up all their relocation obligations, Eutelsat representatives told FCC International and Wireless bureaus and Office of General Counsel staffers, per a filing forthcoming in docket 18-122. Further delay raises the risk of harmful interference to incumbent C-band satellite services when Verizon begins rolling out terrestrial operations in the band, it said. It urged the Wireless Bureau to verify that ubiquitous earth station filtering is in place before terrestrial transmissions start. A Phase II validation would provide confidence those earth stations will operate properly after the launch of terrestrial service. Eutelsat also urged the bureau to set up compliance obligations and an oversight process to ensure the service to incumbent C-band earth station operators not covered by a validated certification is protected before any terrestrial licensee starts service.