Agenda item 1.

8
(WP 5B* / WP 4A, WP 4B)

1.8 to consider, on the basis of ITU R studies in accordance with

Resolution 171 (WRC-19), appropriate regulatory actions, with a view to reviewing and, if
necessary, revising Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) and No. 5.484B to accommodate the use of
fixed-satellite service (FSS) networks by control and non-payload communications of
unmanned aircraft systems;
Resolution 171 (WRC-19) – Review and possible revision of Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19)
and No. 5.484B in the frequency bands to which they apply
Status of text provided by Working Party 5B for the draft conference preparatory
meeting Report on WRC-23 agenda item 1.8
Due to the complexity of the agenda item and the difficulties caused to this work by COVID-
19, it was not possible, despite all efforts being made during this study period, to complete the
work on preparing draft Conference Preparatory Meeting (CPM) text in respect of this agenda
item.
Sections 2/1.8/1-4 are completed and agreed as shown below.
Section 2/1.8/5 is completed in respect of Method A, one of the two methods identified under
this agenda item. However, in respect of Method B, due to the complexity of the matter and
due to lack of time, it was not possible to finalize the review of proposed revisions of
Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) which is an element of this method. Furthermore, requirement
to change Appendix 4 of the Radio Regulations that would be consequential to revisions to
Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) was not discussed.
In respect of the preamble to the Resolution, considering, noting and recognizing, proposals
for revisions have not yet been reviewed or agreed. In respect of the operative part, resolves 1
through to 11.2 have been reviewed and are provided as draft CPM text below. However,
resolves 11.3 and onwards have not been reviewed or agreed. This is also the case for all parts
following the resolves part (encourages administrations, instructs the Director BR and
annexes).
In respect of the outstanding work on revisions to Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) under this
method, Annex 26 to Document 5B/649 contains the working document upon which Working
Party (WP) 5B has been working for this purpose.
Among the issues in the revision to Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) which were not fully
discussed and completed due to lack of time is the issue of safety of life, referred to in Radio
Regulations (RR) No. 4.10, which is one of the crucial and important elements of this agenda
item.
Furthermore, certain elements relating to the principles listed in section 2/1.8/3.2 have not yet
been incorporated into the suggested revisions to Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19).

*
Note: See relevant text in CPM23-1 meeting report (Annex 4 to BR Administrative
Circular CA/251) on how to facilitate the work related to satellite.
2/1.8/1 Executive summary
Under WRC-23 agenda item 1.8, two methods have been identified (see sections 2/1.8/4 and
2/1.8/5):
– Method A proposes suppression of RR No. 5.484B, Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-
19) and Resolution 171 (WRC-19).
– Method B proposes possible revision of RR No. 5.484B, revision of Resolution
155 (Rev.WRC-19) and suppression of Resolution 171 (WRC-19).
In addition to the above, several important issues were raised and addressed in section 2/1.8/3.

2/1.8/2 Background
Unmanned aircraft (UA) are aircraft that are piloted remotely through the established
communication link.
Report ITU-R M.2171 identified the spectrum requirements for UA command and non-
payload communication (CNPC) that would be needed to support flight through non-
segregated airspace.

2/1.8/2.1 Unmanned aircraft system architecture

Fixed-satellite service (FSS) based unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) comprise:
Unmanned aircraft (UA): UA designates all types of remotely piloted aircraft1.
Definition of an earth station on a UA: A fixed-satellite service earth station on an unmanned
aircraft shall be defined as an earth station operating in the fixed-satellite service.
Control and non-payload communications (CNPC) is understood as the radio data links
used to exchange information between the UA and unmanned aircraft control station (UACS)
ensuring safe, reliable, and effective UA flight operation. A CNPC communication link
comprises data for:
– Telecommand (forward) control messages and telemetry (return) data relevant to
enable full remote control of all UA functions.
– ATC relay communication to ensure at the remote pilot site the same situational
awareness of VHF voice communication representative for the radio vicinity at
the current location of the UA.
– Sense and avoid data: comprising target track data, airborne weather radar data
corresponding to the piloting principle of “see and avoid” which is used in all
airspace volumes where the pilot is responsible for ensuring separation from
nearby aircraft, terrain and obstacles.
UA control station (UACS2): Facility from which a UA is controlled remotely. The studies
so far performed consider UACS earth stations using satellite communication located at a
fixed point.
Geostationary satellite: A geosynchronous satellite whose circular and direct orbit lies in the
plane of the Earth’s equator, and which thus remains fixed relative to the Earth; by extension,

1
In ICAO, the UA is referred to Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA).
2
In ICAO, UACS is referred to as Remote Pilot Station (RPS) with the Ground Earth
Station (GES).
a geosynchronous satellite which remains approximately fixed relative to the Earth (RR No.
1.189).
Figure 2/1.8/2-1 shows the UAS CNPC structure with its links, earth stations and space
station. The UACS earth station allows the remote pilot to communicate with the UA earth
station on-board the unmanned aircraft through transponders of a regular geostationary FSS
space station. Links 1 and 2 signify the links for signals from the transmitting UACS earth
station to the receiving UA earth station and Links 3 and 4 are the links for the signals from
the transmitting UA earth station to the receiving UACS earth station.

FIGURE 2/1.8/2-1
Elements of unmanned aircraft system architecture using the fixed-satellite service

2/1.8/3 Summary and analysis of the results of ITU-R studies

2/1.8/3.1 Relevant ITU-R recommendations and reports
ITU-R Recommendations, relevant for studies under WRC-23 agenda item 1.8, as
appropriate, are the latest versions of:
– ITU-R F.758, ITU-R F.1494, ITU-R F.1495, ITU-R F.1565;
– ITU-R M.1180, ITU-R M.1233, ITU-R M.1372, ITU-R M.1643, ITU-R M.1644,
ITU-R M.1730, ITU-R M.2008;
– ITU-R P.528-5, ITU-R P.2108-1;
– ITU-R SF.1006, ITU-R SF.1650;
– ITU-R S.465, ITU-R S.484, ITU-R S.524, ITU-R S.579, ITU-R S.728, ITU-R
S.734, ITU-R S.738, ITU-R S.740, ITU-R S.1062, ITU-R S.1064, ITU-R S.1254,
 ITU-R S.1424, ITU-R S.1432, ITU-R S.1716, ITU-R S.1806, ITU-R S.1856,
ITU-R S.2099, ITU-R S.2131.
ITU-R Reports, relevant for the studies under WRC-23 agenda item 1.8 are the latest versions
of:
– ITU-R M.2171, ITU-R M.2233.

2/1.8/3.2 Analyses of the results of studies

In carrying out the technical and operational studies under WRC-23 agenda item 1.8, several
key points were identified. Some of these key points are included in this section. Moreover,
these key points are also included/reflected in Section 5 of draft CPM text where applicable.
As can be seen in Figure 2/1.8/2-1, there are four different types of links between unmanned
aircraft earth stations and the fixed-satellite service (FSS) space stations:
Link 1 UACS earth station to FSS space station;
Link 2 FSS space station to UA earth station;
Link 3 UA earth station to FSS space station;
Link 4 FSS space station to UACS earth station.
Earth stations for Links 1 and 4 are at a fixed specified location and are thus consistent with
regular FSS operation. Links 2 and 3 involve mobile earth stations and require additional
consideration.
Key principles for UAS CNPC operation include:
1) The FSS space stations and the UACS earth stations would fall in the category of
regular FSS and be coordinated and notified following the regular RR Article 9
and 11 procedures for FSS networks and associated Typical/Specific FSS earth
stations.
2) UAS CNPC operation considered under WRC-23 agenda item 1.8 is seen as an
operation under the FSS which has a primary status in the frequency bands under
consideration and continues to have primary status.
3) UAS CNPC links and associated space and earth stations need to operate within
the envelope of the technical characteristics and operational parameters of
assignments of an associated FSS network(s) which is successfully coordinated
and recorded in the Master International Frequency Register (MIFR) and its date
of bringing into use or being brought back into use is confirmed.
4) The use of FSS for UAS CNPC needs to be within the limits stemming from the
bilateral coordination of the associated FSS network and the UACS earth station.
Furthermore, the operation needs to be within the envelope of operational
arrangements agreed outside the formal bilateral coordination process.
5) In order to assess whether the safety-of-life requirements for a CNPC link could
be fulfilled for a given flight, while the notifying administration has a certain
amount of information related to the coordination of its satellite networks, only
the operator of the satellite on which the CNPC link will operate will have the full
information related to the technical performance which is needed by the entity
assessing the compliance to the safety-of-life requirement for a CNPC link.
6) FSS satellite networks with which UAS CNPC communicate do not have safety
status.
7) In order to ensure the safety of flight of the UA, measures are required consistent
with RR No. 4.10 to ensure freedom from harmful interference. However, due to
the nature of the operation, the notifying administration of regular FSS
networks/links are not in the position to apply RR No. 4.10 to any assignment
pertaining in the link used for UAS CNPC as it would change the regulatory status
of that assignment with respect to other assignments. Consequently, the issue of
safety of flight is totally outside the possibility and capability of the notifying
administration of the FSS network. This issue needs to be addressed differently,
e.g. by exploring mechanisms together with associated measures and techniques
to address the above-mentioned objectives of RR No. 4.10.
8) In ITU, notifying administrations of other FSS networks have no responsibility in
respect of the safe operation of UAS CNPC.
9) No additional status is to be granted to UAS CNPC links and its associated space
and earth stations than that already obtained through the associated FSS network
and its specific and typical earth stations.
10) No change of existing bilateral coordination agreements or additional agreements
between the notifying administration of the FSS network under which the UAS
CNPC links are provided and the notifying administrations of other FSS networks
shall be needed.
11) UAS CNPC operation under the associated FSS network shall not have an adverse
effect during the regular satellite coordination processes of future FSS networks
nor impose any additional coordination requirements due to the UAS CNPC
operation. Safety of life or other special requirements for UAS CNPC operation
shall not be used as an argument to request more protection than what is normally
considered during the regular bilateral coordination process between FSS
networks.
12) The operation of UA earth stations on-board the unmanned aircraft should neither
restrict nor limit/impact current operation and future development of terrestrial
services/stations.
13) Receiving UA earth stations shall be designed and operated to accept the
interference caused by terrestrial services operating in conformity with the Radio
Regulations.
14) Transmitting UA earth stations shall not cause unacceptable interference to
receiving stations of terrestrial services.
15) Defining how to ensure the safe operation of UAS CNPC is under the
responsibility of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and will be
specified in their Standards And Recommended Practices (SARPs). In accordance
with ICAO requirements, necessary mitigation measures including its associated
techniques and interference management functions in order to meet the safety
requirements need to be implemented without having negative effect on
incumbent services, their existing operation and future development.
16) Responsibility under the Radio Regulations (RR) for the licensing and resolving
the case of interference from the CNPC links, including the actions to be taken to
address cases of harmful interference, will have to stay in line with the current
ITU principles and procedures, notably as established for the operation of other
aeronautical-satellite earth stations.
2/1.8/3.3 Sharing considerations
Under this agenda item, assignments pertaining to geostationary FSS networks operating in
the frequency bands 10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth),
11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Region 2, 12.2-12.5 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Region 3,
12.5-12.75 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Regions 1 and 3 and 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), and
in the frequency bands 14-14.47 GHz (Earth-to-space) and 29.5-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space),
may be used for UAS CNPC links. Article 5 of the Radio Regulations provides a complete
overview of frequency allocations for various services and special conditions for their
operation. Table 2/1.8/3.3.2-1 provides an overview of primary allocations for services in the
subject frequency bands from Article 5 of the Radio Regulations.
In considering UAS CNPC operation under this agenda item, issues related to compatibility
with the services having primary allocations in the subject frequency bands is discussed in the
following sub-sections.
In addition to consideration of compatibility with services having primary allocations in the
subject frequency bands, the radio astronomy service is allocated on a secondary basis in the
adjacent frequency band 14.47-14.5 GHz and is subject to RR No. 5.149 in which
“administrations are urged to take all practicable steps to protect the radio astronomy service
from harmful interference. Emissions from spaceborne or airborne stations can be particularly
serious sources of interference to the radio astronomy service (see RR Nos. 4.5 and 4.6 and
Article 29)”. Consequently, in sub-section 2/1.8/3.4.4, is a discussion on measures in respect
of the radio astronomy service.
Stations are in operation in countries under secondary frequency allocations and have been
deployed taking into account the regulatory conditions for services under primary allocations
at that time. In considering new applications under primary allocations and new regulatory
provisions for these, it is recognized that this could change the interference scenario for these
stations operating under secondary allocations. This matter needs to be addressed by the
Conference.

TABLE 2/1.8/3.3.2-1
Overview of primary allocations in the frequency bands subject to WRC-23 agenda item 1.8

Space-to-Earth Earth-to-space Space-to-Earth Earth-to-space

10.95- 11.45- 11.7- 12.2- 12.5- 14.3- 19.7- 20.1- 29.5-

14-14.3 29.9-30
11.2 11.7 12.2 12.5 12.75 14.47 20.1 20.2 29.9
GHz GHz
GHz GHz GHz GHz GHz GHz GHz GHz GHz

Globall Globall Regio Regio Region Globall Globall Globall Globall Globall Globall
y y n2 n3 s1&3 y y y y y y
FSS V V V V V V V V V V V
MS
- - - - - - - Vii Viii Vii Viii
S
BSS - - - - Viv - - - - - -
FS V V V v
V V vi
- vii
V viii
- x
- x
- -
MS i
V V - V V vi
- V viii
- x
- x
- -
RN
- - - - - Vix - - - - -
S
i
Except aeronautical mobile.
ii
Only Region 2, with special conditions outlined in RR Nos. 5.525, 5.526, 5.527, 5.528 and 5.529.
iii
Special conditions outlined in RR Nos. 5.525, 5.526, 5.527 and 5.528.
iv
Only for Region 3.
v
Only 11.7-12.1 GHz (secondary in USA in accordance with RR No. 5.486). 12.1-12.2 GHz
primary in Peru (RR No. 5.489).
vi
Country footnotes RR No. 5.494 and No. 5.496 with primary allocations to the FS and MS for
named Region 1 countries.
vii
Country footnote RR No. 5.505 with primary allocation to the FS in 14-14.3 GHz for named
Region 1 and 3 countries. Country footnote RR No. 5.508 with primary allocation to the FS in 14.25-14.3 GHz
for named Region 1 countries.
viii
For 14.3-14.4 GHz, only Regions 1 and 3.
ix
In accordance with RR No. 5.504, The use of the frequency band 14-14.3 GHz by the
radionavigation service shall be such as to provide sufficient protection to space stations of the fixed-satellite
service.
x
Country footnote RR No. 5.524 with primary allocation to the FS and MS in 19.7-21.2 GHz for
named Region 1, 2 and 3 countries. This additional use shall not impose any limitation on the power flux-
density of space stations in the fixed-satellite service.

2/1.8/3.3.1 Relationship between unmanned aircraft system command and

control communication links and other satellite networks
UAS CNPC links need to operate within the notified and recorded technical parameters of the
associated FSS satellite network as well as within the coordinated limits of that satellite
network. The use of FSS networks for CNPC links should in no way give rise to adversely
affect other satellite networks. In this respect it is to be noted that the FSS in the frequency
bands in question is heavily used for commercial applications, and as any such
radiocommunication service, is subject to unpredictable unintentional interference which
needs to be taken into account and duly mitigated in considering UAS CNPC operation in the
above-mentioned frequency bands.
UA CNPC earth stations need to be designed and operated with the interference caused by
other satellite networks in their application of RR Articles 9 and 11, and notably those
assignments pertaining to other satellite networks recorded in MIFR under RR No. 11.41.
Moreover, operation of UAS CNPC links should not have any impact on the existing and
future satellite networks coordination agreements or the regular satellite coordination process.
Consequently, interference to/from other satellite networks need to be addressed under the
current regulatory procedures/provisions and therefore would not require any further sharing
and interference analysis with satellite networks and systems. The above conditions are
necessary in order not to put any constraints/not adversely affect the operations of other FSS
networks.
It is worth mentioning that safety aspects of UAS CNPC operation is addressed in section
2/1.8/3.3.

2/1.8/3.3.2 Relationship with terrestrial services

With respect to the relationship between UAS CNPC and terrestrial services, the following
three cases need to be taken into account:
1) Space station used for UAS CNPC;
2) UACS earth station at fixed, known location;
3) UA CNPC earth stations on board unmanned aircraft.
The relationship between the stations referred in 1) and 2) above and terrestrial services are
covered under the current procedures of the Radio Regulations. The relationship between UA
CNPC earth stations and terrestrial services is described below.
UA CNPC earth stations will operate within a specified geographic area, but not at one
specific and defined location. As such, they are understood as typical earth stations (see RR
No. 11.17). The relationship of UA CNPN earth stations with terrestrial services is based on
two principles (see also section 2/1.8/3.3):
– Receiving UA earth stations need to not seek protection from terrestrial services
and shall pose no limitation on the current terrestrial services nor the future
development of these.
– Transmitting UA earth stations need to not cause unacceptable interference to
current or future receiving stations of terrestrial services.
Taking note of this, no technical studies have been conducted in respect of protection of
receiving UA CNPC earth stations from terrestrial services nor are any provisions in the Radio
Regulations required in this respect.
In respect of transmitting UA earth stations, it can be seen from Table 2/1.8/3.3.2-1 that while
there are secondary allocations, there are no primary allocations to terrestrial services in the
frequency band 29.5-30 GHz which is subject to this agenda item. Consequently, there is no
need for provisions in the Radio Regulations to protect terrestrial services in this band or studies
in this respect.
For the frequency band 14-14.47 GHz which is the other transmitting band for UA earth
stations under this agenda item, it can however be seen that this band is shared with terrestrial
services. Consequently, there is a need for provisions to ensure that no unacceptable
interference is inflicted on current or future receiving stations of terrestrial services.

2/1.8/3.3.3 Relationship with radionavigation service

The radionavigation service (RNS) is allocated on a primary basis in frequency band 14-14.3
GHz. Under this agenda item, this band is used by transmitting UA CNPC and UACS earth
stations and receiving space stations.
As discussed earlier, the space station and the UACS earth station are filed with ITU and
coordinated as regular FSS under the normal procedures of the current Radio Regulations. It
is also noted that in respect of protection of the receiving space station, RR No. 5.504
stipulates that “The use of the frequency band 14-14.3 GHz by the radionavigation service
shall be such as to provide sufficient protection to space stations of the fixed-satellite service.”
For these reasons, no particular consideration of the space station or the UACS earth station is
required under this agenda item.
In respect of protection of the RNS from transmitting UA CNPC earth stations, it is to be
emphasised that should these UA CNPC earth stations operate within the envelope of
technical characteristics and operational parameters as well as the envelope of coordinated
limits of specific and/or typical earth stations of the associated FSS network recorded in
MIRF with favourable findings there would be no additional requirements to protect the RNS
from transmitting UA CNPC earth stations.
2/1.8/3.3.4 Relationship with radio astronomy service
The radio astronomy service is allocated on a secondary basis in the frequency band 14.47-
14.5 GHz which is immediate adjacent to the FSS (Earth-to-space) in the frequency band 14-
14.47 GHz subject to this agenda item. This band will see operation of transmitting UA
CNPC and UACS earth stations. UACS earth stations are filed and coordinated as required as
regular specific FSS earth stations under the normal procedures of the current Radio
Regulations. Consequently, consideration under this agenda item has only been given to
transmitting UA earth stations.
– RR No. 5.149 stipulates that “administrations are urged to take all practicable
steps to protect the radio astronomy service from harmful interference. Emissions
from spaceborne or airborne stations can be particularly serious sources of
interference to the radio astronomy service (see RR Nos. 4.5 and 4.6 and
Article 29)”.
– RR Nos. 4.5 and 4.6 further stipulate:
• RR No. 4.5: The frequency assigned to a station of a given service shall be
separated from the limits of the band allocated to this service in such a
way that, taking account of the frequency band assigned to a station, no
harmful interference is caused to services to which frequency bands
immediately adjoining are allocated.
• RR No. 4.6: For the purpose of resolving cases of harmful interference,
the radio astronomy service shall be treated as a radiocommunication
service. However, with regard to emissions from services operating in
other bands, it shall be afforded the same degree of protection as such
services are afforded vis-à-vis each other.
– Resolves 17 of Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) also specifically addresses
protection of the radio astronomy service:
• “that, in order to protect the radio astronomy service in the frequency band
14.47-14.5 GHz, administrations operating UAS in accordance with this
Resolution in the frequency band 14-14.47 GHz within line-of-sight of
radio astronomy stations are urged to take all practicable steps to ensure
that the emissions from the UA in the frequency band 14.47-14.5 GHz do
not exceed the levels and percentage of data loss given in the most recent
versions of Recommendations ITU-R RA.769 and ITU-R RA.1513;”
– Recommendation ITU-R RA.769-2 provides the interference threshold power
flux-density (pfd) for radio astronomy receivers (−221 dB(W/(m2 · Hz))).
Recommendation ITU-R RA.1513-2 explains that the protection threshold in
Recommendation ITU-R RA.769-2 may be exceeded for 2% of the time by
systems operating in one network, as long as the threshold is not violated for more
than 5% of the time by all networks.
– RR Article 29 describes how, due to the very high sensitivity to interference of the
radio astronomy service, mitigation techniques to avoid interference needs to be
implemented both by the radio astronomy side and those services potentially
interfering with the radio astronomy service. Such mitigation techniques include
choice of sites for radio astronomy stations, use of site shielding, time sharing and
consideration of actual characteristics for each case. Such measures can only be
applied on a case-by-case basis.
Noting that there are a limited number of radio astronomy stations at known locations, it may
be appropriate to address compatibility with radio astronomy stations on a case-by-case basis
taking into account the specific characteristics for each station and the out-of-band frequency
discrimination towards the adjacent radio astronomy frequency band 14.47-14.5 GHz.
However, no compatibility or sharing studies have yet been conducted.

2/1.8/4 Methods to satisfy the agenda item

Two methods to satisfy WRC-23 agenda item 1.8 have been identified. The below subsections
give a description of each of these methods.

2/1.8/4.1 Method A
Method A proposes to suppress RR No. 5.484B together with Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19)
as well as Resolution 171 (WRC-19).
Reasons: Resolution 171 (WRC-19) is requiring a review and possible revision of
Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) since this in its current state does not enable operation of UA
earth stations. This agenda item stems from agenda item 1.3 of WRC-12 and agenda item 1.5
of WRC-15 and consideration of the matter of WRC-19 which resulted in Resolution 171
(WRC-19). After more than ten years of extensive studies, there are still key problems that
have not been resolved, in particular the contradiction between the safety nature of the
operation of UAS and the non-safety status of the fixed-satellite service. With no satisfactory
solution identified for the operation of UA earth stations, it therefore would be necessary to
suppress RR No. 5.484B together with Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) as well as Resolution
171 (WRC-19).

2/1.8/4.2 Method B
Method B intends to revise Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) in accordance with Resolution
171 (WRC-19) and consequently suppress Resolution 171 (WRC-19). In addition, this
method contains the revision of RR No. 5.484B as an option.
Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) is revised in view of the principles listed in section 2/1.8/3.2
above. In particular it is intended to:
• clearly separate between the responsibilities of ICAO and ITU;
• consider how to ensure the safety of flight while recognizing the issue of RR No.
4.10;
• remove ambiguities contained in Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19);
• clarify that UAS CNPC is an operation under the primary FSS while avoiding
adverse effects to terrestrial stations;
• maintain the existing procedure for the FSS network coordination as well as for
bilateral coordination agreements;
• provide a process to treat cases of interference caused by UA earth station.
As an option, RR No. 5.484B would be updated to improve the clarity to the services and
systems to which the footnote applies.
Reasons: After considering the progress obtained by the International Civil Aviation
Organization (ICAO) in the process of establishing and preparing Standards and
Recommended Practices (SARPs) for the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems, the
studies to protect the terrestrial services from harmful interference, revisions to Resolution
155 (Rev.WRC-19) are proposed to satisfy this agenda item. The intention being that
compliance with the Resolution would ensure that all required ITU-R technical, operational,
and regulatory conditions are met, and would not adversely affect existing and future FSS
networks or terrestrial services.
Under this method, different options for revising Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) are
proposed.

2/1.8/5 Regulatory and procedural considerations

The following subsections provide example regulatory text in response to the methods to
satisfy WRC-23 agenda item 1.8 as identified in section 2/1.8/4.
2/1.8/5.1 Method A

ARTICLE 5

Frequency allocations

Section IV – Table of Frequency Allocations

(See No. 2.1)

SUP
5.484B

SUP

RESOLUTION 155 (REV.WRC-19)

Regulatory provisions related to earth stations on board unmanned aircraft

which operate with geostationary-satellite networks in the fixed-satellite
service in certain frequency bands not subject to a Plan of Appendices 30,
30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of
unmanned aircraft systems in non-segregated airspaces*

SUP

RESOLUTION 171 (WRC-19)

Review and possible revision of Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) and

No. 5.484B in the frequency bands to which they apply
2/1.8/5.2 Method B
The examples of regulatory texts address all of the issues that time permitted as indicated in
the status of text at the start of the CPM text on this agenda item.
For this method, the following is proposed for consideration.

ARTICLE 5

Frequency allocations

Section IV – Table of Frequency Allocations

(See No. 2.1)

Method B Option 1

MOD
5.484B Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-1523)* shall apply.     (WRC-1523)

Method B Option 2

MOD
5.484B The operation of earth stations on board unmanned aircraft communicating with
geostationary fixed-satellite service (FSS) space stations within the frequency bands 10.95-
11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth), 11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
in Region 2, 12.2-12.5 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Region 3, 12.5-12.75 GHz (space-to-Earth) in
Regions 1 and 3 and 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), and in the frequency bands 14-
14.47 GHz (Earth-to-space) and 29.5-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space) are an application of the
FSS, are limited to internationally standardized aeronautical systems, and Resolution 155
(Rev.WRC-1523)* shall apply.     (WRC-1523)

Method B Options 1 and 2

APPENDIX 4 (REV.WRC-19)

Consolidated list and tables of characteristics for use in the

application of the procedures of Chapter III

**
Note by the Secretariat:  This Resolution was revised by WRC-19.
**
Note by the Secretariat:  This Resolution was revised by WRC-19.
 ANNEX 2

Characteristics of satellite networks, earth stations

or radio astronomy stations     (Rev.WRC-12)
2 

TBD

MOD

RESOLUTION 155 (REV.WRC-1923)

Regulatory provisions related to earth stations on board unmanned aircraft

which operate with geostationary-satellite networks in the fixed-satellite
service in certain frequency bands not subject to a Plan of Appendices 30,
30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of
unmanned aircraft systems in non-segregated airspaces *

The World Radiocommunication Conference (Sharm el-Sheikh, 2019Dubai, 2023),

considering
TBD
considering further
TBD
noting
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recognizing
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recognizing further
TBD
resolves
1 that frequency assignments to stations of GSO FSS networks operating in the
frequency bands 10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth), 11.7-
12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Region 2, 12.2-12.5 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Region 3, 12.5-
12.75 GHz (space-to-Earth) in Regions 1 and 3 and 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), and in
the frequency bands 14-14.47 GHz (Earth-to-space) and 29.5-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space), may
be used for UAS CNPC links to communicate with earth stations on board UA operating in
non-segregated airspace*, provided that the conditions specified in the following resolves
below are met;

**
May also be used consistent with international standards and practices approved by the
responsible civil aviation authority.TBD
**
May also be used consistent with international standards and practices approved by the
responsible civil aviation authority.
2 that frequency assignments used by UAS CNPC links operating in the frequency
bands specified in resolves 1 above are an application of the primary frequency allocations to
the FSS;
3 that frequency assignments to UA CNPC earth stations subject to this Resolution
shall be notified under No. 11.2 by the notifying administration of the FSS satellite network
with which these earth stations communicate;
4 that for the implementation of resolves 3 above, the notifying administration for
the GSO FSS system with which the UAS CNPC earth station communicates shall send to the
Radiocommunication Bureau (BR) the relevant Appendix 4 notification information related to
the characteristics of the UAS CNPC earth station identified as class of station “UG”;
5 that, for the implementation of resolves 4 above, the notifying administration of
the GSO FSS network with which the UA CNPC earth station communicates shall also be
responsible to observe, and comply with all relevant regulatory and administrative provisions
applicable to the operation of the above-mentioned UA CNPC earth station as included in this
Resolution and those contained in the Radio Regulations, the implementation of No. 4.10 is
addressed in resolves xx below;
6 that the notifying administration of the GSO FSS network with which the UA
CNPC earth station communicates shall ensure that UA CNPC earth stations operate only in
the territory under the jurisdiction of any administration(s)/country(ies) from which an
explicit authorization has been obtained under Article 18, taking into account recognizing
further c) and d) above;
7 that the notifying administration of the GSO FSS satellite network with which the
UA CNPC earth stations communicate shall ensure that they have the capability to limit
operations of such earth stations to the territory or territories of administrations having
authorized those earth stations;
8 that the authorization to an UAS CNPC earth station to operate in the territory
under the jurisdiction of an administration shall in no way release the notifying administration
of the GSO FSS network with which the UAS CNPC earth station communicates from the
obligation to comply with the provisions included in this Resolution and those contained in
the Radio Regulations;
29 that the notifying administration of the GSO FSS network with which the UA
CNPC earth station communicates shall ensure that earth stations in motion on board UA may
communicate with the space station of a GSO FSS network operating in the frequency bands
listed in resolves 1 above, provided that the class of the UA CNPC earth station in motion on
board UA is matched with the class of the space station and that other conditions of this
Resolution are met (see also instructs the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau 3
below);
3 that the frequency bands specified in resolves 1 shall not be used for the UAS
CNPC links before the adoption of the relevant international aeronautical SARPs consistent
with Article 37 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, taking into account
instructs the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau 4;
4 that administrations responsible for an FSS network providing UA CNPC links
shall apply the relevant provisions of Articles 9 (necessary provisions need to be identified or
developed) and 11 for the relevant assignments, including, as appropriate, assignments to the
corresponding space station, specific and typical earth station and earth station in motion on
board UA, including the request for publication in the International Frequency Information
Circular (BR IFIC) of items referred to in resolves 2 and the course of actions identified in
that resolves in order to obtain international rights and recognition as specified in Article 8;
10 that, with respect to other satellite networks in the frequency bands referred to in
resolves 1, the notifying administration of the GSO FSS network with which the UA CNPC
earth station communicates shall ensure that its UA CNPC earth stations comply with the
following conditions:
510.1 that the UA CNPC earth stations of UAS CNPC links shall operate characteristics
shall remain within the notified and recorded technical parameters envelope of characteristics
of the associated satellite network, including specific or typical earth stations of the associated
GSO FSS satellite network(s) as notified and published by the Radiocommunication Bureau
(BR);
610.2 that the operation of UA CNPC earth stations of UAS CNPC links shall not cause
more interference to and shall not, or claim more protection from, other satellite networks and
systems than specific or that of the typical earth stations of that GSO FSS networkas indicated
in resolves 5 as published by BR;
7 that, in order to apply resolves 6 above, administrations responsible for the FSS
network to be used for UAS CNPC links shall provide the level of interference for the
reference assignments of the network used for CNPC links upon request by an administration
authorizing the use of UAS CNPC links within its territory;
8 that earth stations of UAS CNPC links of a particular FSS network shall not cause
more interference to, or claim more protection from, stations of terrestrial services than
specific or typical earth stations of that FSS network as indicated in resolves 5 that have been
previously coordinated and/or notified under relevant provisions of Articles 9 and 11;
910.3 that the use of assignments of an FSS satellite network for UAS CNPC links shall
not constrain other FSS satellite networks beyond what is already imposed by the typical earth
stations of the associated FSS satellite network during the application of the provisions of
Articles 9 and 11;
10.4 the operation of the UA CNPC earth station shall comply with the coordination
agreements for the frequency assignments of the typical earth station of the associated GSO
FSS network obtained under the relevant provisions of the Radio Regulations, taking into
account resolves 16.6;
10.5 operation of UAS CNPC links shall not adversely affect the existing and future
satellite networks coordination agreements or the regular satellite coordination process;
11 that, with respect to terrestrial services in the frequency bands referred to in
resolves 1, the notifying administration of the GSO FSS network with which the UA CNPC
earth station communicates shall ensure that its UA CNPC earth stations comply with the
following conditions:
1011.1 that the introduction use of UAS CNPC links shall not result in additional
coordination constraints on terrestrial services under Articles 9 and 11;
11.2 unless otherwise agreed between the administrations concerned, receiving UA
CNPC earth stations shall not claim protection from transmitting stations of terrestrial
services operating in conformity with the Radio Regulations, No. 5.43A does not apply and
there is therefore no change of the regulatory status of UA CNPC earth stations with respect
to those of the terrestrial service;
resolves following 11.2
TBD
encourages administrations
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invites the 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference
TBD
invites the ITU Radiocommunication Sector
TBD
instructs the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau
TBD
instructs the Secretary-General
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invites the International Civil Aviation Organization
TBD

ANNEX 1 TO RESOLUTION 155 (REV.WRC-1923)

TBD

ANNEX 2 TO RESOLUTION 155 (REV.WRC-1923)

Protection of the fixed service from UAS CNPC emissions

TBD

SUP

RESOLUTION 171 (WRC-19)

Review and possible revision of Resolution 155 (Rev.WRC-19) and

No. 5.484B in the frequency bands to which they apply