Federal Communications Commission Spectrum Auctions and Joint Vision 2010: Will the Spectrum Auctions Hinder the Department of Defense's Ability to Ex - Softcover

This thesis examined the impact of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) frequency auctions on Joint Vision 2010. Since 1993, the FCC has conducted spectrum auctions which auctioned portion of the EM spectrum to industry. Included in the auctions have been portions of the EM spectrum allocated to the DOD. Defense systems are extremely dependent upon access to the EM spectrum. DOD communications, sensors, and command and control systems all use the EM spectrum. The study analyzed the impact of the auctions on DOD systems by looking at frequency bands that are being used by DOD systems and at frequency bands that future systems will use. The study examined some solutions to this problem including using new and evolving technology, government options and industry solutions. The study concluded that DOD can execute Joint Vision 2010. However, DOD must take immediate steps to assure access to the EM spectrum. These steps include investing in technology that will make DOD more spectrum efficient and working closely with industry to foster better relations between DOD and industry.