OCT - 1 2013 
The Honorable John D. Rockefeller IV 
Chairman 
Committee on Commerce, Science and Transpo:t:tation 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20 510 
Dear Mr. Chairman: 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of fmding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department' s National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce. Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for ¥learjng~of federal systems and sharing .between_feder.al and commercial interests in 
95 megahet1z of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement speGtrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, Without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 2025-
2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not be 
easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable John D. Rockefeller IV 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulernaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July I 7, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) of NDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap, in 
parallel with the public comment cycle, to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their transition 
plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC recommendations 
that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chiefinformaticm Officer, the 
Commerce Dep~ment through the Assistant _Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you with subsequent 
joint progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~ntl:mx.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable John Thune 
Ranking Member 
OCT - 1 2013 
Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Pear Senator Thune: 
Thank you for your August !letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of fmding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, goverrunent, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Corrunerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result .ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17,2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110· 
MHz band, where apd when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 2025-
211 0 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not be 
easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
TheHonorable John Thune 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enabie a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other ·bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~o!;;if.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Mark Pryor 
Chainnan 
OCT - 1 2013 
Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet 
Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Pryor: 
Thank you for your August 1' letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC' s working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating. shared access to the 
The Honorable Mark Pryor 
Page2 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 11 0 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refming the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
1'!!-n~z:X. ~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Roger Wicker­
Ranking Member 
OCT - 1 2013 
Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet 
Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Wicker: 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Coinmission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22,2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by ~020, the Commerce Department's National Telecomml;mications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several ipcumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit tran~itipn plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans~ This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline,. and enable 
pairing of 1755-1 780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
The Honorable Roger Wicker 
Page 2 
2025-2110 MHz·band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light .gfthe variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013 . The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing p]an as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction ofthe 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~oTcl;rnX. ~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Kelly Ayotte 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Ayotte: 
OCT - 1 2013 
· Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, govenunent, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
available for transition plan development. H·owever, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
The Honorable Kelly Ayotte 
Page2 
On July 23,2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public corilrnents are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refming the details of DoD' s proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public co:mn'lent cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the GSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~oTc:=!-~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Mark Begich 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Begich: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August I -letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national securicy capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts,. the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August I, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
The Honorable Mark Begich 
Page2 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As jt moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~n~l;:X.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Richard Blumenthal 
United States Semite 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Blumenthal: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use ·by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing betw~en feder~l and commercial interests in 
95megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to fmalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-21 10 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Richard Blumenthal 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013 . The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz.· The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice a.lso seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate t1 0 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD' s proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information,- and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~o1c:;::mX.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Roy Blunt 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Blunt: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department ofDefense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of fmding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum :rvia~agement Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17,.2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-211 0 MHz band. DoD .is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Roy Blunt 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band," in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are aple to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
P::Jt ~j:p--
Secretary of Commerce 
!!!nt::X.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Barbara Boxer 
United States "Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Boxer: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department ofDefense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 .MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of fmding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department' s National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule wili enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC' s working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2 155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which· will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Barbara Boxer 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlight4lg the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, includiilg 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD' s July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice .also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
T::lzk~-4'~ 
Secretary of Commerce 
eorc;:tr.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Maria Cantwell 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Cantwell: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the hand to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, .201?. 
To further the President's goal offmding an additional500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users . 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1 780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Maria Cantwell 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013 . The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
'questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry' s proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implication.s of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnfonnation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
"B ?4\~ 
P:;;ltzker 
Secretary of Commerce 
~~~::X.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Jeff Chiesa 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Chiesa: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department' s National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commerciai interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition pla'ns for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755~1 780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where ·and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Jeff Chiesa 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However~ DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780. MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also see~ input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations tha~ NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD; NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnforrnation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
T.-::Jttk~-4 \~ 
Secretary of Commerce 
~tc;:urnx. ~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Dan Coats 
United States Sen ate 
Washington, DC 2051 0 
Dear Senator Coats: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same tinie, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts -to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Admiiristration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices. of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 17 55-1780 MHz band to 
submit trap.sition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, in.cluding the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users . 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Dan Coats 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions· about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 1 fo percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully revi~w the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The l)oD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~J~Z/~r. &f-.-
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Ted Cruz 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Cruz: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of-Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHZ band to 
ena:ble the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices .of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the. 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its fmal recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community tp determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
The Honorable Ted Cruz 
Page2 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23,2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance offreeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry' s proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~oTc::m;(. &f-.-
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Deb Fischer 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 2051 0 
Dear Senator Fischer: 
ocr - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more sp~ctrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Infonnation 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule wiii enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17,2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to detennine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the vc¢ety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Deb Fischer 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry'·s proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice a~so seeks inpu~ on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recogni?:e that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~X.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Martin Heinrich 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Heinrich: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent com~erciai and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NOAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Martin Heinrich 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulernaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectmm for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 20 I 3, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically se.eks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry' s proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the mlemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Departmynt through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
OitE-1\~ 
Secretary of Commerce 
'fh..,...-X.~ 
Mignon Clyburn 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Dean Heller 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 2051 0 
D~ar Senator Heller: 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Secretary of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal sys_tems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users . 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NOAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755- 1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Dean Heller 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-21'80 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry' s proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD' s proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agen.cies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
'fh.,.-X.~ 
Mignon Clyburn 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Ron Johnson 
United States Senate. 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Johnson: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing betweeu federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1 780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NOAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited t:ime 
The Honorable Ron Johnson 
Page2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaldng is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public com.inents are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of vario~s plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the ·industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
·rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, a~d the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary ofDefense 
Sincerely, 
~rc;!'~ . 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Amy Klobuchar 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Klobuchar: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Amy Klobuchar 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional sp·ectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in· addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) of NDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC wiU particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to dete1mine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band wilJ require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
;:;lit~~\._.-
Secretary of Commerce 
~ntl~mx. &f-.-. 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Edward J. Markey 
United States Senate · 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Markey: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, arid the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755- 1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President' s goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing offederal systems and sharing between feder?l and ~ommercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band: As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2 110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the-National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Edward J. Markey 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23,2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice ab:;o seeks input on the implications of various plans on ~ding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 11 0 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~~~1:4\~ 
Secretary of Commerce 
~urn;(.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
TI1e Honorable Claire McCaskill 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator McCaskill: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department ofDefense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, govenunent, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing. between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shru:ed access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Claire McCaskill 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD' s July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) of NOAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
P-::li14\~ 
Secretary of Commerce 
~ntl~: ;(. &f-.-
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Bill.Nelson 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Nelson: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the-1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's go~l of finding an additional500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of feqeral systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use an.d enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), .support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Bill Nelson 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17,2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for firstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Comrilerce for Communications and 
Inforrhation, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
P-::lt! 4 \""" 
Secretary of Commerce 
~o?"c::~~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Marco Rt~bio 
United States Senate · 
Washington, DC 205 10 
Dear Senator Rubio: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested; this letter 
will update· you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22,2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its fmal recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Marco Rubio 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013 . The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD' s July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireles~ industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various_plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1 062(b) of NDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD' s proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~!::if.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Brian Schatz 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 2051 0 
Dear Senator Schatz: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department ofDefense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examj.ne the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems .and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans_. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users . 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Brian Schatz 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently. working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely au.ction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16,2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The · 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the irnplications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules: 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 17 5 5- 1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issut:s and options. The DoD through its Chieflnformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~!cl~m;(.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Tim Scott 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Scott: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department ofDefense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and cqmmercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the I 755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Tim Scott 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755:..1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on fun~ng for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the· rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the ·agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chieflnfmmation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent j oint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
:::ntl::mx. ~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Hono-rable Jeanne Shaheen 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Shaheen: 
OCT - 1 2013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Coffi!IIerce, anq the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, tlus letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of finding an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Teleconimunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices oft~e Commerce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing qetween federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result of these efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 1755-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC's working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Jeanne Shaheen 
Page2 
available for transition plan dev~lopment. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18,2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to otlier bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
. The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 110 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs . 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refming the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public_ comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chiefinformation Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel . 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~oTc;urnX. ~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission 
The Honorable Mark Warner 
United States Senate 
Washington, DC 20510 
Dear Senator Warner: 
OCT - 11013 
Thank you for your August 1 letter regarding federal radio spectrum. On behalf of the 
Department of Defense (DoD), the Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC), we recognize that making more spectrum available for commercial use is critical 
to strengthening our economy and to funding the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet). At 
the same time, we must maintain essential national security capabilities. As you requested, this letter 
will update you on our efforts to resolve the issues related to repurposing the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
enable the band to be auctioned and licensed by February 22, 2015. 
To further the President's goal of findi'ng an additional 500 MHz of spectrum for wireless 
broadband use by 2020, the Commerce Department's National Telecommunications and Information 
Administration (NTIA) brought together industry, government, and other stakeholders under the 
auspices of the Comrrierce Spectrum Management Advisory Committee (CSMAC) to examine the 
opportunities for clearing of federal systems and sharing between federal and commercial interests in 
95 megahertz of spectrum in the 1755-1850 MHz band. As a result ofthese efforts, the CSMAC 
presented NTIA its final recommendations for addressing several incumbent federal systems. On 
August 1, 2013, NTIA requested all affected federal agencies using the 1755-1780 MHz band to 
submit transition plans for this band no later than January 23, 2014. NTIA is working with the 
agencies over the coming months to finalize their plans. This schedule will enable the FCC to auction 
the 17 5 5-1780 MHz band by its September 2014 target date. 
After careful review of all available information, including the CSMAC' s working group 
studies, on July 17, 2013, DoD proposed to NTIA to make the 1755-1780 MHz band available for 
commercial use and enable DoD access to suitable replacement spectrum, including the 2025-2110 
MHz band, where and when necessary, without displacing incumbent commercial and federal users. 
This proposal would restore essential military capabilities as required by the National Defense 
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2000 (NDAA 2000), support the FCC's auction deadline, and enable 
pairing of 1755-1780 MHz with 2155-2180 MHz. DoD initiated discussions with the broadcast 
community to determine the most feasible arrangement for coordinating shared access to the 
2025-2110 MHz band. DoD is also focusing on the development of its transition. plans, which will not 
be easy to complete in light of the variety and large number of systems affected and the limited time 
The Honorable Mark Warner 
Page 2 
available for transition plan development. However, DoD is diligently working with NTIA and other 
federal and industry stakeholders to enable a timely auction and an executable plan. 
On July 23, 2013, the FCC initiated a rulemaking highlighting the critical importance of freeing 
up additional spectrum for flexible commercial use. This rulemaking is the product of significant work 
and analysis by FCC attorneys and engineers. Initial public comments are due September 18, 2013, 
and reply comments are due October 16, 2013. The notice of proposed rulemaking asks many detailed 
questions about the 1755-1780 MHz band, in addition to other bands, including 2155-2180 MHz. The 
notice specifically seeks comment on DoD's July 17, 2013, proposed relocation and sharing plan as 
well as the wireless industry's proposed roadmap for the 1755-1780 MHz band. 
The notice also seeks input on the implications of various plans on funding for FirstNet and the 
statutory requirement that an auction generate 11 0 percent of estimated relocation and sharing costs. 
The notice also seeks comment on the implications of section 1062(b) ofNDAA 2000 with respect to 
the various proposals. As it moves forward with the rulemaking proceeding, the FCC will particularly 
focus on evaluating and refining the details of DoD's proposed plan and the industry roadmap in 
parallel with the public comment cycle in order to ensure that the agencies are able to develop their 
transition plans to allow a timely auction. The FCC will also carefully.review the CSMAC 
recommendations that NTIA transmits to determine the elements that may be incorporated into the 
rules. 
We recognize that a successful auction of the 1755-1780 MHz band will require additional 
close collaboration between DoD, NTIA, and the FCC. To that end, our staffs have been involved in 
dozens of calls and face-to-face meetings with each other, other federal agencies, and industry experts 
to work successfully through issues and options. The DoD through its Chief Information Officer, the 
Commerce Department through the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Com1nunications and 
Information, and the FCC Chair will continue to work together and will provide you subsequent joint 
progress updates, as requested in your letter. 
Charles T. Hagel 
Secretary of Defense 
Sincerely, 
~n~l~X.~ 
Acting Chairwoman 
Federal Communications 
Commission