Satellite operator SES has signed an agreement with Verizon to expand the US telco’s access to a portion of 5G-suitable 3700MHz-3800MHz C-band spectrum in important regions across the US earlier than the relocation deadlines previously set out by the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC).
SES previously completed its Phase I accelerated C-band clearing – ahead the first FCC deadline of 5 December 2021 – earning almost USD1 billion in accelerated relocation payments. To meet the Phase II deadline (5 December 2023), SES is already working to relocate its existing services from the 3700MHz-4000MHz band and complete equipment changes for its Incumbent Earth Stations across the entire contiguous US, earning an additional USD3 billion in accelerated relocation payments in the process.
In a separate press release, Verizon notes that the accelerated C-band clearing timetable will allow it to launch 5G in at least 30 additional ‘major population centres’ this year, including the likes of Atlanta, Denver, Baltimore and Washington, DC.