Media Contact: 
Neil Grace, 202-418-0506
neil.grace@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
FCC FURTHER STREAMLINES SATELLITE LICENSING RULES
  --
WASHINGTON, December 17, 2015 – The Federal Communications Commission adopted 
rules to comprehensively simplify and streamline the regulatory approval process for 
satellite licenses. These rules are also known as the Part 25 rules. This rulemaking is one of 
the key reforms under the Commission’s process reform initiative.  
Today’s Report and Order increases satellite operational flexibility, eliminates unnecessary 
filing requirements, and updates our rules to better accommodate evolving technology.  The 
changes will significantly reduce regulatory burdens and costs.  
Specifically, the Commission’s Report and Order adopts changes that will: 
? Facilitate international coordination of proposed satellite networks by permitting 
submissions of advanced publication and coordination requests by the FCC to the 
International Telecommunication Union before a full license application is filed at 
the Commission;
? Eliminate interim satellite milestone implementation requirements;
? Deter spectrum warehousing by creating a post-licensing bond requirement that increases 
in value over time, providing an incentive for licensees to surrender their authorizations 
early if business plans change;
? Refine the “two-degree” orbital spacing requirements to better accommodate the use of 
small antennas, and 
? Expand options for simplified routine earth station licensing.  
The Report and Order also simplifies, eliminates, updates, or clarifies definitions and 
technical terms throughout the Part 25 rules.
Action by the Commission December 17, 2015 by Second Report and Order (FCC 15-
167). Chairman Wheeler, Commissioners Clyburn, Rosenworcel, Pai, and O’Rielly approving 
and issuing separate statements.
(IB Docket No. 12-267)
###
Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500
TTY: (888) 835-5322
Twitter: @FCC
www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a 
Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 
1974).