Road ahead still rocky for connectivity as terrestrial wireless closes in on C-band

27 May, 2020

The FCC has the majority it needs to move forward with an accelerated plan for releasing parts of satellite C-band for terrestrial 5G, after the spectrum’s main holders Intelsat and SES declared their support. 

While the display of unity provides some relief for a troubled market, the plan faces other obstacles. Smaller satellite operators are...

Read more

Assessing the C-band positives for a pressured connectivity supply chain | Viewpoint

14 May, 2020

C-band progress in the US will offer some relief for the connectivity supply chain, which has been battling long-running strains that are being worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic. With plans to substantially reduce its near-US$15bn legacy debt burden with a Chapter 11 restructuring, amid commitments for US$1bn in new financing, satellite operator Intelsat is clearing the way to meet the FCC’s roadmap for releasing parts of the spectrum for terrestrial 5G.

Recent results from satellite maker Maxar also suggest payloads are already being ordered to meet the regulator’s accelerated timeframe, providing stimulus that will help some steps in the value chain more than others...

Read more