BSNL seeks 70MHz spectrum in 3.5GHz band for 5G: Report

NEW DELHI: State-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has sought 70MHz of spectrum in the 3.5GHz band (3300-3670MHz) from the government, according to a report by Financial Express.

BSNL’s demand, if met by the government, could allow it to launch 5G services at a later date even though it is yet to switch on its much-awaited 4G network. Furthermore, the telco will not need to participate in the upcoming auction but will need to pay determined prices.

London-headquartered GSMA points out, “Today, a majority of commercial 5G networks rely on spectrum in the 3.5 GHz range (3.3 GHz-4.2 GHz). This momentum makes it vital that regulators assign as much contiguous 5G spectrum as possible in the range.”