UK SPF Report: Exploring a new framework for defence spectrum sharing in the UK

Commissioned by the UK Spectrum Policy Forum (UK SPF), this study examines the future of spectrum sharing between civilian and military users in the UK. It focuses on improving civilian access to MOD spectrum, aiming to create a framework that balances civilian use with the strategic needs of Defence. The study involved gathering information from stakeholders, including the mobile industry, utilities, PMSE, satellite, and rural broadband sectors, as well as engaging with Ofcom and DSIT. A dedicated workshop with the MOD was also conducted to understand current sharing processes and collaboration with Ofcom.

Key Findings and Potential Scenarios

The case for understanding the issues related to sharing spectrum with defence applications is timely, coming at the end of the Public Sector Spectrum Release (PSSR) Programme, which began in the early 2000s to make spectrum available for private sector use. The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) is interested in facilitating additional private and commercial access to its spectrum holdings when not needed, by adopting a more agile framework.

The MOD recognizes that economic growth, including the need for commercial spectrum access to military frequencies, is in the national interest of the UK. Enabling greater civilian use of defence spectrum often conflicts with national security interests, making spectrum sharing a critical priority. This priority aligns with the current and future direction of both DSIT and Ofcom, as well as international trends towards embracing spectrum sharing.

A notable international example is the Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS) introduced in the US in 2020, which set a precedent for defence-managed spectrum sharing approaches. CBRS demonstrated that coexistence is possible through a system protecting defence users while enabling commercial mobile service. 

Within that context, the report identifies specific MoD spectrum bands that might interest commercial entities and outlines access methods in collaboration with Ofcom and MOD. To understand future sharing potential, the report analysed four scenarios:

  • Maintain the status quo without enhancing current sharing approaches.
  • Extend Ofcom's SAL framework for more harmonization and standardization benefits
  • Automated Dynamic Spectrum tools application
  • MOD as an SMO for a strategic approach to sharing
Exploring a new framework for defence spectrum sharing in the UK cover only_01_page-0001.jpg

 

Recommendations

Based on the analysis, the study provides several recommendations for managing Crown spectrum. Expansion should be incremental and based on verified demand, ensuring that changes in sharing regimes do not prejudice existing sharing. Information gathering is essential before any implementation to assess the credibility of the demand for the restricted availability of spectrum within MOD's holdings.

Ofcom should manage access to MOD spectrum for civil users. Applications that cannot be supported should be published to assess sharing priorities. Coordination between MOD and Ofcom is crucial to ensure security and provide clear decisions on sharing conditions without disclosing the rationale to applicants.

MOD should develop a comprehensive spectrum roadmap that considers long military equipment lifecycles, emerging technologies, operational needs, and international regulatory developments such as WRC27. Roles within Ofcom and MOD involved in managing and maintaining the new framework should be formalized. Additionally, spectrum constraints and sharing methodologies should be identified and agreed upon to facilitate effective sharing.

Active participation in regulatory and policy fora by MOD and Ofcom is recommended to incorporate agreed best practices in future sharing frameworks. The outcomes of this study should be shared with friendly/NATO countries, acknowledging parallel work within CEPT that could benefit the wider defense community while considering key defense requirements. Adequate resources should be allocated to support planning and analysis for WRC27.

Contact us

Sophie Greaves

Sophie Greaves

Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, techUK

Sophie Greaves is Head of Programme for Communications Infrastructure and Services at techUK, and oversees the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.

Sophie was promoted to Head having been Programme Manager for Communications Infrastructure and Services, leading techUK's telecoms activities, engagement and policy development. Previously, Sophie was Programme Assistant across a variety of areas including the Broadband Stakeholder Group, Central Government, Financial Services and Communications Infrastructure programmes.

Prior to joining techUK, Sophie completed a masters in Film Studies at University College London; her dissertation examined US telecoms policy relating to net neutrality and content distribution.

Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
020 7331 2038
Twitter:
@SJMJames1
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiegreaves/

Read lessmore

Jaynesh Patel

Jaynesh Patel

Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, techUK

Jaynesh Patel is Head of Telecoms and Spectrum Policy, leading the Communications Infrastructure and Services Programme at techUK and overseeing the UK Spectrum Policy Forum.

Jaynesh has extensive experience in the sector, having worked for CityFibre (a full fibre broadband company) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) on digital infrastructure policy. Most recently Jaynesh led on policy and public affairs in the UK and Ireland for ChargePoint (an EV charging network).

Prior to this Jaynesh worked in the Cabinet Office for more than five years, including over two years at the Government Digital Service (GDS) supporting the digital transformation of UK Government.

Jaynesh has a BSc (Hons) in Economics from the London School of Economics (LSE).

Email:
[email protected]
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayneshpatel/

Read lessmore

Tales Gaspar

Tales Gaspar

Programme Manager, UK SPF and Satellite, techUK

Tales has a background in law and economics, with previous experience in the regulation of new technologies and infrastructure.

In the UK and Europe, he offered consultancy on intellectual property rights of cellular and IoT technologies and on the regulatory procedures at the ITU as a Global Fellow at the European Space Policy Institute (ESPI).

Tales has an LL.M in Law and Business by the Getulio Vargas Foundation (FGV) and an MSc in Regulation at the London School of Economics, with a specialization in Government and Law.

Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
+44 (0) 0207 331 2000
Website:
www.techUK.org
LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/talesngaspar

Read lessmore

Matthew Wild

Matthew Wild

Programme Assistant - Markets, techUK

Matthew joined techUK in August 2023 as a Programme Assistant.

Email:
[email protected]
Phone:
020 7331 2000

Read lessmore