FCC Mandates LTE as Air Interface for First Responders

The FCC adopted new rules that requires all 700 MHz public safety mobile broadband networks to use a common air
interface, specifically LTE, to support roaming and interoperable communications. The action builds
on the technical requirements that state and local 700 MHz broadband waiver recipients are already subject
to in the early buildout of their regional public safety broadband networks.

The FCC is also seeking public comment on additional rules to enable nationwide interoperability. This includes:

• The architectural vision of the network;
• The effectiveness of open standards;
• Interconnectivity between networks;
• Network robustness and resiliency;
• Security and encryption ;Coverage and coverage reliability requirements;
• Roaming and priority access between public safety broadband networks; and
• Interference coordination and protection.

http://www.fcc.gov