PMev Requests Long Term Use of Critical Communication Frequencies in Germany

PMeV, the German Association for Critical Communications requests the German Federal Network Agency to grant a long-term use of radio frequencies in the 410 to 430 MHz range for narrow-band mission- and business-critical trunked-radio applications. 

The allocation of this frequency spectrum is currently limited until December 31, 2025. With regard to planning and investment security, the PMeV considers it necessary to show users of narrowband technologies early on reliable perspectives for the use of frequencies in the 410 - 430 MHz range beyond 2025.

“The security and mission-critical voice communication in this Frequency range is still indispensable for operators of critical infrastructures and for industry. In addition to the renewal and expansion of existing networks, there is currently a great deal of demand for new business for TETRA communication systems. There is a risk of an investment backlog if users cannot plan beyond 2025, ”explains PMeV chairman Bernhard Klinger.

The users of narrowband trunked radio services in the 410 - 430 MHz range mainly include critical infrastructure operators (KRITIS) and industry.

“Delays in urgently needed investments for these users ultimately lead to deficits in the supply and security of the population,” warns Bernhard Klinger.

The PMeV chairman reminded that - regardless of the growing need for broadband services - professional mobile communications users still need secure and highly available voice communication in narrowband communication networks. "In my opinion, this applies to at least the next ten years," he adds.

Eliminate fixed end dates for frequency assignments

Although frequencies are otherwise generally allocated for a period of ten years, the administrative regulations for frequency allocations in narrowband trunked radio (VVBÜFu) have set a fixed end date as of December 31, 2025. The PMeV considers an amendment to this rule to be urgently required.

"In order to make the regulatory framework more reliable and thus prevent investment backlogs, a fixed end date should not be included in this regulation. Then all investments could be made at any time under the same time conditions, ”said Klinger.

Picture: Bernhard Klinger - Courtesy of Hytera Mobilfunk