Proposed Revisions to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (2017 edition)

1. Intent

Through this consultation paper, announced in Canada Gazette notice SMSE-005-17, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) reviews the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations (the Canadian Table) and makes proposals for its revision, taking into account the results of the 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC‑15) and domestic requirements. The Canadian Table was modified in 2014, to incorporate the results of WRC‑12 and to reflect changes to domestic spectrum policies. Subsequent changes have also been made since then to incorporate more recent spectrum policy decisions.

In the accompanying Canada Gazette notice, ISED (referred to hereinafter as the Department) invites public comments on these proposals, as well as any input to ensure the completeness of the Canadian Table.

2. Background

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) adopts an International Table of Frequency Allocations (the International Table) as part of the ITU Radio Regulations. This International Table allocates spectrum to various combinations of radio services and may include conditions for the use of the spectrum. The International Table is revised, along with other parts of the ITU Radio Regulations, at meetings of the ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRC), which are typically held every three to four years.

The Canadian Table is derived from the International Table and contains those radio services required to meet Canadian needs, among those allocated by the ITU, including the applicable international footnotes. This domestic table also specifies, by allocation and Canadian footnote, any additional provisions for use of those services in Canada.

ISED revises the Canadian Table periodically, normally following a WRC. WRC‑15, which met from November 2 to November 27, 2015, in Geneva, Switzerland, adopted a number of changes to the frequency allocations in the International Table. The Conference dealt with issues concerning amateur, fixed, mobile, radiolocation, navigation, science, mobile‑satellite, and fixed‑satellite services. The resulting changes to the International Table necessitate consideration of several domestic issues. In addition, domestic requirements for other changes to the Canadian Table have emerged, and will also be addressed. This document discusses these issues and makes proposals for revisions to the Canadian Table.

3. Process

The accompanying Canada Gazette notice (SMSE-005-17) invites public comment on the proposals contained in this consultation paper. Following the review of comments received, allocation decisions will be promulgated by the issuance of a revised Canadian Table. Furthermore, any additional spectrum policy decisions that involve domestic allocation or footnotes changes, and are subject to their own consultation process, will be consequently incorporated in the next revision of the Canadian Table without further consultation.

4. Document structure

Section 7 of this consultation paper is divided into six Parts that address the proposed changes to the Canadian Table consequential to the decisions made at WRC‑15. Furthermore, any spectrum policy decisions that deal with domestic allocation or footnotes changes that have been approved through their own consultation process will not be discussed in this consultation paper and will be incorporated in the final edition of the Canadian Table.

5. Conventions used

The proposals contained in this consultation paper are identified as modifications to the current Canadian Table, published in April 2014 and last revised in January 2015. This current version of the Canadian Table may be obtained from ISED's Spectrum Management and Telecommunications website. For a better understanding of these proposals, refer to the most recent International Table, as found in the ITU Radio Regulations, Volume 1 (2016 Edition), Article 5 and the Final Acts of the World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2015). In section 7, the following conventions are used:

6. Definitions

The following is a list of terms and definitions that are relevant to the Canadian Table. These terms and definitions are extracted from the ITU's Radio Regulations. The ITU Radio Regulations should be consulted for a more comprehensive listing.

6.1 General terms

Administration:

Any governmental department or service responsible for discharging the obligations undertaken in the Constitution, Convention and Administrative Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union.

Allocation (of a frequency band):

Entry in the Table of Frequency Allocations of a given frequency band for the purpose of its use by one or more terrestrial or space radiocommunication services or the radio astronomy service under specified conditions. This term also applies to the frequency band concerned.

Allotment (of a radio frequency or radio frequency channel):

Entry of a designated frequency channel in an agreed plan, adopted by a competent conference, for use by one or more administrations for a terrestrial or space radiocommunication service in one or more identified countries or geographical areas and under specified conditions.

Assignment (of a radio frequency or radio frequency channel):

Authorization given by an administration for a radio station to use a radio frequency or radio frequency channel under specified conditions.

Radio:

A general term applied to the use of radio waves.

Radio waves or hertzian waves:

Electromagnetic waves of frequencies arbitrarily lower than 3 000 GHz, propagated in space without artificial guide.

Radiocommunication:

Telecommunication by means of radio waves.

Terrestrial radiocommunication:

Any radiocommunication other than space radiocommunication or radio astronomy.

Space radiocommunication:

Any radiocommunication involving the use of one or more space stations or the use of one or more reflecting satellites or other objects in space.

Radiodetermination:

The determination of the position, velocity and/or other characteristics of an object, or the obtaining of information relating to these parameters, by means of the propagation properties of radio waves.

Radionavigation:

Radiodetermination used for the purposes of navigation, including obstruction warning.

Radiolocation:

Radiodetermination used for purposes other than those of radionavigation.

Radio direction‑finding:

Radiodetermination using the reception of radio waves for the purpose of determining the direction of a station or object.

Radio astronomy:

Astronomy based on the reception of radio waves of cosmic origin.

Coordinated Universal Time (UTC):

Time scale, based on the second (SI), as described in Resolution 655 (WRC‑15).

Industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) applications (of radio frequency energy):

Operation of equipment or appliances designed to generate and use locally radio frequency energy for industrial, scientific, medical, domestic or similar purposes, excluding applications in the field of telecommunications.

6.2 Radio services

Aeronautical mobile service:

A mobile service between aeronautical stations, and aircraft stations, or between aircraft stations, in which survival craft stations may participate; emergency position‑indicating radiobeacon stations may also participate in this service on designated distress and emergency frequencies.

Aeronautical mobile (OR)^{Footnote 1} service:

An aeronautical mobile service intended for communications, including those relating to flight coordination, primarily outside national or international civil air routes.

Aeronautical mobile (R)^{Footnote 2}  service:

An aeronautical mobile service reserved for communications relating to safety and regularity of flight, primarily along national or international civil air routes.

Aeronautical mobile‑satellite service:

A mobile‑satellite service in which mobile earth stations are located on board aircraft; survival craft stations and emergency position‑indicating radiobeacon stations may also participate in this service.

Aeronautical mobile‑satellite (OR)^{Footnote 1} service:

An aeronautical mobile‑satellite service intended for communications, including those relating to flight coordination, primarily outside national and international civil air routes.

Aeronautical mobile‑satellite (R)^{Footnote 2} service:

An aeronautical mobile‑satellite service reserved for communications relating to safety and regularity of flights, primarily along national or international civil air routes.

Aeronautical radionavigation service:

A radionavigation service intended for the benefit and for the safe operation of aircraft.

Aeronautical radionavigation‑satellite service:

A radionavigation‑satellite service in which earth stations are located on board aircraft.

Amateur service:

A radiocommunication service for the purpose of self‑training, intercommunication and technical investigations carried out by amateurs, that is, by duly authorized persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without pecuniary interest.

Amateur‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service using space stations on earth satellites for the same purpose as those of the amateur service.

Broadcasting service:

A radiocommunication service in which the transmissions are intended for direct reception by the general public. This service may include sound transmissions, television transmissions or other types of transmission.

Broadcasting‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service in which signals transmitted or retransmitted by space stations are intended for direct reception by the general public. In the broadcasting‑satellite service, the term direct reception shall encompass both individual reception and community reception.

Earth exploration‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service between earth stations and one or more space stations, which may include links between space stations, in which:

• information relating to the characteristics of the Earth and its natural phenomena, including data relating to the state of the environment, is obtained from active sensors or passive sensors on Earth satellites;
• similar information is collected from airborne or Earth‑based platforms;
• such information may be distributed to earth stations within the system concerned;
• platform interrogation may be included.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its operation.

Fixed service:

A radiocommunication service between specified fixed points.

Fixed‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service between earth stations at given positions, when one or more satellites are used; the given position may be a specified point or any fixed point within specified areas; in some cases, this service includes satellite‑to‑satellite links, which may also be operated in the inter‑satellite service; the fixed‑satellite service may also include feeder links for other space radiocommunication services.

Inter‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service providing links between artificial satellites.

Land mobile service:

A mobile service between base stations and land mobile stations or between land mobile stations.

Land mobile‑satellite service:

A mobile‑satellite service in which mobile earth stations are located on land.

Maritime mobile service:

A mobile service between coast stations and ship stations, or between ship stations, or between associated on‑board communication stations; survival craft stations and emergency position‑indicating radiobeacon stations may also participate in this service.

Maritime mobile‑satellite service:

A mobile‑satellite service in which mobile earth stations are located on board ships; survival craft stations and emergency position‑indicating radiobeacon stations may also participate in this service.

Maritime radionavigation service:

A radionavigation service intended for the benefit and for the safe operation of ships.

Maritime radionavigation‑satellite service:

A radionavigation‑satellite service in which earth stations are located on board ships.

Meteorological aids service:

A radiocommunication service used for meteorological, including hydrological, observations and exploration.

Meteorological‑satellite service:

An earth exploration‑satellite service for meteorological purposes.

Mobile service:

A radiocommunication service between mobile and land stations, or between mobile stations.

Mobile‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service:

• between mobile earth stations and one or more space stations, or between space stations used by this service; or
• between mobile earth stations by means of one or more space stations.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its operation.

Radio astronomy service:

A service involving the use of radio astronomy.

Radiocommunication service:

A service involving the transmission, emission and/or reception of radio waves for specific telecommunication purposes. Unless otherwise stated, any radiocommunication service relates to terrestrial radiocommunication.

Radiodetermination service:

A radiocommunication service for the purpose of radiodetermination.

Radiodetermination‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service for the purpose of radiodetermination involving the use of one of more space stations.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its own operation.

Radiolocation service:

A radiodetermination service for the purpose of radiolocation.

Radiolocation‑satellite service:

A radiodetermination‑satellite service used for the purpose of radiolocation.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its operation.

Radionavigation service:

A radiodetermination service for the purpose of radionavigation.

Radionavigation‑satellite service:

A radiodetermination‑satellite service used for the purpose of radionavigation.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its operation.

Safety service:

Any radiocommunication service used permanently or temporarily for the safeguarding of human life and property.

Space operation service:

A radiocommunication service concerned exclusively with the operation of spacecraft, in particular space tracking, space telemetry and space telecommand.

These functions will normally be provided within the service in which the space station is operating.

Space research service:

A radiocommunication service in which spacecraft or other objects in space are used for scientific or technological research purposes.

 

Standard frequency and time signal service:

A radiocommunication service for scientific, technical and other purposes, providing the transmission of specified frequencies, time signals, or both, of stated high precision, intended for general reception.

 

Standard frequency and time signal‑satellite service:

A radiocommunication service using space stations on earth satellites for the same purposes as those of the standard frequency and time signal service.

This service may also include feeder links necessary for its operation.

6.3 Categories of services

Primary and secondary services

In the Canadian Table, where a band is indicated as allocated to more than one service, services are listed in the following order:

1. primary services are printed in "all capital letters" (example: primary serviceFIXEDend primary service), and
2. secondary services are printed in "normal characters" (example: secondary serviceAmateurend secondary service).

Additional remarks are printed in "normal characters" (example: begin primary serviceMOBILEend primary service except aeronautical mobile).

For each category, services are listed in alphabetical order but that order does not indicate relative priority.

Stations of a secondary service

1. shall not cause harmful interference to stations of primary service to which frequencies are already assigned or to which frequencies may be assigned at a later date,
2. cannot claim protection from harmful interference from stations of a primary service to which frequencies are already assigned or may be assigned at a later date, and
3. can claim protection, however, from harmful interference from stations of the same or other secondary service(s) to which frequencies may be assigned at a later date.

The frequency band referred to in each allocation is indicated in the left‑hand top corner of the part of the Table concerned.

The footnote references which appear in the Table below the allocated service or services apply to more than one of the allocated services, or the whole of the allocation concerned.

The footnote references which appear to the right of the name of a service are applicable only to that particular service.

6.4 Regions

These definitions and provisions are extracted from the ITU Radio Regulations.

Figure 1 — Regions

7. Proposed changes to the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations

Part A — Maritime and aeronautical services

Background

UAS consist of an unmanned aircraft (UA) and an associated unmanned aircraft control station (UACS). UA are aircraft that do not carry a human pilot and may fly autonomously or be piloted remotely.

The development of UAS is based on recent technological advances in aviation, electronics and structural materials, making the economics of UAS operations more favorable, particularly for more repetitive, routine and long‑haul duration applications. The current state of the art in UAS design and operation is leading to the rapid development of UAS applications to fill many diverse requirements. There is a large variety of existing and envisioned applications of UAS such as cargo transportation, fire‑fighting, flood monitoring, search and rescue, disaster operations management, oceanographic and atmospheric observations, weather forecasting, geological survey, monitoring of gas pipelines and electricity distribution systems, city and highway traffic, border patrol, law enforcement, counter drug operations, crop and harvest monitoring, broadcast and airborne relay‑type services, etc. The operation of UA requires addressing the same issues as manned aircraft, namely safe and efficient integration into the air traffic control system.

WRC‑12 made a global allocation for the control and non‑payload communications of UAS for the terrestrial component in 5 030-5 091 MHz, which is reflected in the current version of the Canadian Table. WRC‑15 considered the satellite component through the use of existing fixed‑satellite service (FSS) allocations.

Discussion

WRC‑15 successfully designated the FSS 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, 19.7-20.2 GHz (space‑to‑Earth), 14-14.47 GHz (Earth‑to‑space) and 29.5-30.0 GHz (Earth‑to‑space), for control and non‑payload communications of UAS, through Resolution 155 (WRC‑15). This designation will allow the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to develop the appropriate standards and recommended practices for UAS control and non‑payload communications via FSS.

In addition, WRC‑15 decided to further study and review the regulatory provisions related to the use of FSS for control and non‑payload communications of UAS as per Resolution 155 (WRC‑15), which is satisfactory to Canada. This approach will enable ICAO to move forward, given their mandate to ensure that the safety aspect of UAS operation using FSS is fully studied.

The Department proposes to reflect the WRC‑15 decisions in the Canadian Table.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

In various parts of the world, there are congestion issues for on‑board communication stations in maritime mobile systems, given that there are currently only six identified frequencies in the ultra‑high frequency (UHF) band to be used for these systems. These systems are used for internal communications on‑board ships and between ships, as well as in a group of ships that are being towed or pushed, engaged in line handling operations or passing mooring instructions.

Discussion

WRC‑15 decided that new spectrum for use by on‑board communication stations is not necessary. However, to facilitate more efficient spectrum use, channel spacings of 6.25 kHz and 12.5 kHz will be permitted in the 457.5125-457.5875 MHz and 467.5125-467.5875 MHz bands, which can provide up to four times the capacity of traditional 25 kHz systems. Footnote 5.287 was modified to reflect this decision.

In Canada, the maritime community utilizes the existing channels dedicated for on‑board communications. The Department proposes to incorporate the new version of footnote 5.287 to permit additional channel spacing in the same frequency band, as well as the use of digital technology.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

During the WRC‑15 cycle, studies were carried out to determine whether channels AIS1 and AIS2 could be used for other applications, such as application specific messages (ASM), in conjunction with the intended purpose of collision avoidance. Administrations tested the loading of AIS1 and AIS2 and found the loading of the two channels to be excessive, especially in congested areas. Therefore, studies were carried out to find additional channels within the frequency band found in Appendix 18 of the ITU Radio Regulations, to alleviate the loading of AIS1 and AIS2.

Discussion

WRC‑15 decided that channels adjacent to AIS1 and AIS2 can be used for ASM. As a result, a new secondary allocation for the maritime mobile‑satellite service (Earth‑to‑space) was identified for frequency band 161.9375-161.9625 MHz (channel 2027) and frequency band 161.9875-162.0125 MHz (channel 2028) for improved ASM communications capacity and coverage. This was accomplished by splitting channels 27 and 28 in Appendix 18 using the upper frequency portions for ASM1 and ASM2. WRC‑15 also adopted a transitional period, until January 2019, for the permanent implementation of ASM1 and ASM2. However, until January 2019, the use of these channels for possible testing of AIS applications is permitted through a note in Appendix 18.

This is in line with Canadian interests.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

The civil aviation industry is developing the future generation of aircraft. This next generation is being designed to enhance efficiency and reliability while maintaining current required levels of safety as a minimum. The use of wireless technologies in the aircraft may reduce the overall weight of systems, reducing the amount of fuel required to fly and thus benefiting the environment.

Wireless avionics intra‑communications (WAIC) systems provide a way to derive these benefits. WAIC systems provide for radiocommunication between two or more points on a single aircraft and constitute exclusive closed on board networks required for the operation of an aircraft. WAIC systems do not provide air‑to‑ground, air‑to‑satellite or air‑to‑air communications. WAIC systems will only be used for safety‑related aircraft applications.

Discussion

There was unanimous consensus going into the Conference for a global primary allocation in the frequency band 4 200-4 400 MHz to the aeronautical mobile (route) service (AM(R)S), reserved exclusively for WAIC systems that operate in accordance with recognized international aeronautical standards.

The WRC‑15 decision to allocate the frequency band 4 200-4 400 MHz to AM(R)S for WAIC is a successful outcome for Canada. It will enable aviation manufacturers such as Boeing Canada and Bombardier to use the technology to replace some wired systems in aviation design with wireless systems, once international standards have been developed. The Department proposes to reflect this decision in the Canadian Table.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

The use of automotive short‑range high‑resolution radars (SRR), may significantly contribute to the improvement of road safety. SRRs are employed today in many automotive active safety applications ranging from parking aid and blind spot detection, to more advanced applications such as crash mitigation and collision avoidance.

The first applications of the SRR technology have been using the 24 GHz band. SRR systems are only allowed to use this band, subject to detailed regulatory restrictions to protect other users in the 24 GHz frequency range such as radio astronomy stations, Earth exploration satellites and other satellite services. In many countries, these regulatory restrictions have been more stringent since 2013-2014, and SRR systems are being encouraged to migrate to the 79 GHz band.

Additional spectrum in the 76-81 GHz frequency band for automotive radar applications would contribute to the goal of improving road safety, in areas such as distracted driving, transport efficiency and the quality of the environment. The frequency band 77-81 GHz is already designated for SRR systems in many countries. A global harmonization of this frequency band would be beneficial in terms of efficient use of the spectrum and economies of scale.

Discussion

At WRC‑15, the frequency band 77.5-78 GHz was allocated to the radiolocation service on a primary basis. This outcome results in 5 GHz of contiguous spectrum between 76 and 81 GHz for short range radar for ground based applications such as those in automobiles. Automotive high‑resolution radars can be used to enhance safety such as improved detection of pedestrians and cyclists. Since the allocation is not limited to automotive applications, it may also be used by the aviation industry for aircraft wing‑tip radars to facilitate tarmac and airport manoeuvres. Technical studies will continue within the ITU‑R, under Resolution 759 (WRC‑15), to further identify any additional protection measures around radio astronomy sites, such as exclusion zones that could be applied at the domestic level.

The Department proposes to reflect these WRC‑15 decisions in the Canadian Table.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

Automatic dependent surveillance–broadcast (ADS‑B) is a terrestrial aeronautical monitoring system that broadcasts (twice per second) position, altitude, velocity, aircraft ID, and other related avionics information. This information enables accurate position determination and monitoring of aircraft and the safe airspace separation of aircraft by air traffic control management. The system is presently in use, as well as being implemented in a number of countries.

ADS‑B information availability directly influences many factors such as the minimum separation distances between aircraft, resulting in efficient use of airspace, optimization of air routes and altitude availability due to events such as changes in weather conditions, and safe operation of airspace with a higher density of aircraft, as well as contributing to having shorter flight times. Shorter flight times and altitude optimization contribute to fuel efficiencies and cost savings on aircraft maintenance requirements. The use of ADS‑B also enables improved safety by providing additional information for search and rescue response.

ADS‑B signals are received by other aircraft and terrestrial stations within line‑of‑sight. In oceanic, polar regions, remote areas or other areas where deployment of ground‑based surveillance systems is not feasible, ADS‑B signals are not being utilized to track aircraft. A number of satellite systems have been in development to place ADS‑B receivers on board low‑earth orbiting satellites, permitting the existing aircraft signals to be received and relayed to appropriate air traffic management (ATM) centres and airlines. However, prior to WRC‑15, there was no allocation in the ITU Radio Regulations to allow reception of these signals. A new allocation would make it possible to monitor ADS‑B equipped aircraft in remote, oceanic and polar regions, augmenting the current ground‑based surveillance systems to provide monitoring capability anywhere on the globe. This represents an innovative use of currently available technology to enhance the safety of aviation operations on a global scale and reduce the carbon footprint of commercial aviation through the improvement of fuel efficiencies.

Discussion

WRC‑15 allocated the frequency band 1 087.7-1 092.3 MHz to the aeronautical mobile‑satellite (route) service (AMS(R)S) to facilitate global flight tracking. This allocation enables the satellite reception of existing aircraft transmissions, leveraging the equipment that is currently installed on aircraft to track aircraft in real time over oceans, the poles and remote areas. Stations operating in the new AMS(R)S allocation cannot claim protection from stations in the aeronautical radionavigation service or the aeronautical mobile (route) service, which is an accepted practice of hierarchical services in the ITU Radio Regulations and within ICAO. This result is fully in line with Canada's objectives for WRC‑15. The Department proposes to reflect the WRC-15 decisions in the Canadian Table.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Part B — Mobile and amateur services

Background

International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) systems are mobile systems that provide access to a wide range of telecommunication services, including advanced mobile services, supported by mobile and fixed networks. A number of frequency bands have already been identified for IMT.

In Resolution 233 (WRC‑12), the ITU‑R was asked to study additional spectrum requirements for IMT, taking into account:

• technical and operational characteristics of IMT systems, including the evolution of IMT through advances in technology and spectrally‑efficient techniques, and their deployment;
• the bands currently identified for IMT, the technical conditions of their use, and the possibility of optimizing the use of these bands with a view to increasing spectrum efficiency;
• the evolving needs, including user demand for IMT and other terrestrial mobile broadband applications;
• the needs of developing countries; and
• the time‑frame in which spectrum would be needed.

Also, the ITU‑R was invited to study potential candidate bands, taking into account the results of the studies on additional spectrum requirements, as well as protection of existing services and the need for harmonization.

The following 19 bands were considered as potential candidate bands:

• 470-694/698 MHz
• 1 350-1 400 MHz
• 1 427-1 452 MHz
• 1 452-1 492 MHz
• 1 492-1 518 MHz
• 1 518-1 525 MHz
• 1 695-1 710 MHz
• 2 700-2 900 MHz
• 3 300-3 400 MHz
• 3 400-3 600 MHz
• 3 600-3 700 MHz
• 3 700-3 800 MHz
• 3 800-4 200 MHz
• 4 400-4 500 MHz
• 4 500-4 800 MHz
• 4 800-4 990 MHz
• 5 350 5 470 MHz
• 5 725-5 850 MHz
• 5 925-6 425 MHz

Regulatory and technical studies were carried out to address the feasibility of identifying specific frequency bands for IMT. These studies addressed sharing and compatibility considerations with services that already have allocations in candidate spectrum for IMT identification, taking into account the needs of other services.

Discussion

The following bands were identified for IMT at WRC‑15:

• parts of 470-698 MHz in some countries of Regions 2 (including Canada) and 3;
• 1 427-1 452 MHz and 1 492-1 518 MHz globally;
• 1 452-1 492 MHz in Regions 2 and 3, and over 50 countries in Region 1;
• 3 300-3 400 MHz in some countries from all three Regions;
• 3 400-3 600 MHz in Regions 1 and 2, and some countries in Region 3;
• 3 600-3 700 MHz in some countries in Region 2 (including Canada); and;
• 4 800-4 990 MHz in some countries in Regions 2 and 3.

For the bands 470-608 MHz and 614-698 MHz, the Department published its decision^{Footnote 3} to repurpose the 600 MHz band through a joint spectrum repacking exercise with the United States, following a public consultation.^{Footnote 4} The Department had sought comments on adding co-primary fixed and mobile service allocations to the Canadian Table in frequency ranges 512-608 MHz and 614-698 MHz. The Department concluded in its decision that the required updates to the Canadian Table are dependent on the determination of precise frequency ranges where the co-primary allocations should be added.

Accordingly, the Department has determined that fixed and mobile co‑primary allocations will be added to the band 614-698 MHz. In addition, the Department proposes that international footnotes with regards to the identification of the bands for IMT be adopted as shown below.

For the bands 1 427-1 518 MHz and 3 400-3 700 MHz, the Department intends to address any changes to the Canadian Table and spectrum utilization policies in these bands through future separate public consultations.

For the bands 3 300-3 400 MHz, and 4 800-4 990 MHz, Canada did not identify these bands for IMT. Therefore, no changes to the Canadian Table are proposed.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

Allocations to amateur services in the high frequency (HF) band are interleaved in frequency to provide the capability of communicating during different propagation conditions. The amateur radio service has access to allocations in the vicinity of 3 500 kHz and 7 000 kHz. However, ionospheric conditions may render either or both of these allocations unsatisfactory for communications over the distances often required for responding to emergencies and disaster conditions. Depending upon the nature of the emergency or disaster‑relief traffic, amateurs may be requested to carry communications over relatively‑short (less than 1 000 km) or relatively‑long (greater than 1 000 km) distances. Accordingly, access to spectrum in the vicinity of 5 300 kHz would be required by amateur stations to carry out reliable emergency and disaster‑relief communications.

ITU‑R studies were undertaken to ensure that a secondary allocation in the frequency range under study would not adversely impact the primary fixed and mobile services, some of which showed that observance by the amateur service of listen‑before‑transmit protocols would not cause harmful interference to the primary fixed and mobile services in the 5 275-5 450 kHz range. A spectrum occupancy survey also identified available spectrum for amateur use in the frequency range 5 250 kHz to 5 450 kHz.

Prior to WRC‑15, the Department released the Policy and Technical Framework for Amateur Service Use in the 5 MHz Band (SMSE-004-14). This allowed amateur radio operators to use the 5 332 kHz, 5 348 kHz, 5 358.5 kHz, 5 373 kHz and 5 405 kHz frequencies on a no‑interference, no‑protection basis, aligning with the U.S. technical rules for these channels. A new footnote C21 was added to the Canadian Table for the band 5 250-5 450 kHz.

Discussion

At WRC‑15, Canada proposed a secondary allocation to the amateur service in the frequency ranges 5 330-5 355 kHz and 5 405-5 430 kHz. Although there were several other proposals supporting a secondary allocation to the amateur service ranging from 15 kHz to 175 kHz of spectrum, these were challenged by a number of administrations who proposed no change. It was argued by these latter administrations that a secondary allocation to the amateur service within parts of the frequency range 5 250-5 450 kHz would impinge on the already crowded spectrum and cause unacceptable interference to existing primary services. A number of administrations^{Footnote 5} have authorized, subject to various restrictions in addition to the provisions of ITU Radio Regulations, Section II, Article 4.4, operation by amateur radio licensees within the 5 250 5 450 kHz frequency range. To date, no interference has been reported.

Ultimately, a worldwide secondary allocation of 15 kHz in the frequency band 5 351.5-5 366.5 kHz was made to the amateur service. A footnote was added to Article 5 of the International Table to ensure the protection of the fixed and mobile services from amateur service operations, which imposes an effective isotropic radiated power (e.i.r.p.) limit of 15 watts on operations of stations in the amateur service in all Regions (except in Mexico which has an e.i.r.p. limit of 20 watts and some countries in Region 2 with an e.i.r.p. limit of 25 watts).

The Department proposes to reflect the WRC‑15 decisions in the Canadian Table, as well as to maintain the Canadian footnote C21 (CAN‑14). The proposed changes to the Canadian Table will allow Canadian amateur radio operators to assist in domestic and international emergency or disaster‑relief situations.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Part C — Science services

Background

The purpose of this agenda item was to seek additional spectrum in the 7 GHz range for telecommand, tracking and control of space science satellites. Congestion in the bands 2 025 2 110 MHz and 2 200-2 290 MHz, which currently support several hundred satellites, makes coordination extremely difficult.

Prior to WRC‑15, no suitable Earth‑to‑space allocations were available for tracking, telemetry and control (TT&C) of Earth exploration‑satellite service (EESS) satellites at frequencies higher than the 2 025-2 110 MHz global allocation. Additionally, the frequency band 2 200-2 290 MHz can support payload data downlinks for only a few EESS satellites. These factors require current EESS satellites to be equipped with two transponders: one operating near 2 GHz for TT&C, and the other operating at the higher frequencies required for medium‑ and high‑rate payload data downlinks, typically in the band 8 025-8 400 MHz. With a suitable EESS Earth‑to‑space allocation near the 8 025-8 400 MHz band, a single transponder could accommodate both satellite control and payload data downlink requirements, which translate into cost reduction.

Discussion

At WRC‑15, discussions mainly focussed on the protection of the space operation service (SOS), which is only allocated in Russia, and the protection of the space research service (SRS). WRC-15 agreed to a new primary allocation to the EESS (E-s) in the frequency band 7 190-7 250 MHz for satellite tracking and command purposes, with additional regulatory measures to protect the SOS, the SRS and the incumbent terrestrial services. In particular, with No. 5.460A, EESS space station using the band cannot claim protection from existing or future stations in the fixed and mobile services and EESS earth station must maintain a separation distance from the border of neighboring countries.

The Department proposes to reflect the WRC‑15 decisions in the Canadian Table. The proposed changes will allow the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) and Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to plan their future space missions using this new allocation, instead of the already crowded 2 GHz frequency bands.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

This agenda item sought to extend an existing Earth exploration‑satellite service (EESS) (active) allocation in the range 9 300-9 900 MHz by an additional 600 MHz, within portions of the range 8 700-10 500 MHz.

Space‑borne EESS (active) radars operating in this band have demonstrated their importance by contributing to the gathering of large amounts of scientific and geographic information in areas such as disaster relief and humanitarian aid, land use and large area coastal surveillance. For such applications, there is growing demand for increased radar image resolution that would require an increase in bandwidth by another 600 MHz, for a total of 1 200 MHz of contiguous bandwidth.

Discussion

The main difficulty encountered for this agenda item was how to reconcile the need for high‑resolution radar images for Earth observation purposes, such as disaster relief and climate monitoring, while addressing the concern that these high-resolution images could be used for military purposes. WRC-15 decided to extend the EESS allocation to the bands 9 200-9 300 and 9 900-10 400 MHz, but the use of this new 600 MHz is subject to obtaining the prior agreement of eight countries, most of which are located in the Persian Gulf region. While this imposes additional coordination requirements for Earth exploration satellite system proponents, this additional burden was deemed acceptable.

The Department proposes to reflect the WRC‑15 decisions in the Canadian Table. The proposed changes will satisfy the needs of ECCC, CSA and National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces for high‑resolution images. Existing services (mainly radiolocation and aeronautical radionavigation) operating in the same band, or in the vicinity of the newly allocated band, would be protected from potential interference.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

World Administrative Radiocommunication Conference–1992 (WARC‑92) allocated the band 410-420 MHz to the space research service (SRS) on a secondary basis to allow for extra‑vehicular communications in the vicinity of Earth orbiting manned space vehicles. In addition, a new footnote was added to limit the use of SRS to within 5 km of orbiting manned space vehicles. The SRS allocation was subsequently upgraded to primary status at WRC‑97, with conditions given in No. 5.268, including a set of power flux‑density (pfd) limits to assure the protection of the fixed and mobile services in addition to the previously agreed distance limitation.

The purpose of this agenda item was to consider removing the distance restriction contained in No. 5.268, while keeping the pfd limits unchanged and removing their applicability to only extra‑vehicular activities (EVA).

Discussion

WRC‑15 agreed to remove the distance limitation, as requested by several administrations to meet the requirement of the space agencies. The Department proposes to reflect this WRC‑15 decision in the Canadian Table. The modification is important to the space agencies (including CSA), as it removes the restriction imposed on astronauts for EVA, or on space shuttles approaching the International Space Station.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Part D — Satellite services

Background

There is currently 750 MHz of unplanned FSS spectrum allocated in each of the Earth‑to‑space and space‑to‑Earth directions in the range 10-15 GHz in Region 1. Regions 2 and 3 both have 750 MHz of unplanned FSS spectrum allocated in the Earth‑to‑space direction, but for the space‑to‑Earth direction, the allocations are 1.0 GHz and 1.05 GHz, respectively. This agenda item sought new primary unplanned FSS Earth‑to‑space and space‑to‑Earth allocations of 250 MHz in Region 1 in the frequency range 10-17 GHz –  with a particular focus on bands that are contiguous (or near contiguous) with existing unplanned FSS allocations.

Discussion

WRC‑15 decided to adopt a downlink allocation in the 13.4-13.65 GHz band in Region 1. This allocation is subject to not claiming protection from EESS and agreement under No. 9.21 with respect to current space research systems.

As this is a Region 1 issue only, no action is required for the Canadian Table with respect to the allocation for FSS. However, there were some consequential changes to SRS that affect Region 2. We propose to adopt those changes to protect SRS in Region 2 from FSS in Region 1.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

In the range 10-15 GHz in Regions 2 and 3, there is currently 800 MHz and 750 MHz, respectively, of unplanned FSS spectrum allocated in the Earth‑to‑space direction, while there is 1.0 GHz and 1.05 GHz in the space‑to‑Earth direction, respectively. This asymmetry between unplanned FSS Earth‑to‑space and space‑to‑Earth allocations is seen to create bandwidth limitations that could impose restrictions on FSS operators, preventing them from making the most effective use of the allocated spectrum to meet growing demand from FSS users. This agenda item sought possible bands for new primary unplanned FSS Earth‑to‑space allocations of 250 MHz in Regions 2 and 300 MHz in Region 3, in the frequency range 13-17 GHz – with a particular focus on bands that are contiguous (or near contiguous) with existing unplanned FSS allocations.

Discussion

WRC-15 focussed on the 14.5-14.8 GHz band, which already has an FSS allocation but is limited to feeder links of the broadcasting‑satellite service (BSS). The issue was quite controversial with a sharp division of views even within the regional groups. Canada did not support an allocation in order to protect the aeronautical mobile service use by National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces (DND), and others.

After lengthy regular and informal meetings, the WRC arrived at a compromise with only in‑country allocations permitted, with very strict conditions such as coordination requirements for earth stations within 500 km of the border of another country, minimum 6 metre antennas to limit the number of earth stations, and limits on earth station power flux-density levels at 22 km from the coasts to protect the aeronautical mobile service in international waters. Conditions were also imposed to protect BSS feeder links listed in Appendix 30A. In addition, it was agreed that countries in the footnote allocations would be limited to only those identified during negotiations (30 in Regions 1 and 2 and 9 in Region 3).

The WRC-15 decisions were in line with Canada's objective of limiting FSS allocations that may impact the use of aeronautical mobile service in Canada and overseas for military operations and humanitarian and UN peace‑keeping missions. Also, protection was maintained for the bands allocated to EESS, which was in line with Canada's position. The Department therefore proposes to adopt the outcome of the conference. No changes are needed to the allocations in the table for the band 14.5-14.8 GHz. However, footnote C41 should be updated to remove obsolete text.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

At WRC-95, an allocation was made to the FSS in the 5 091-5 150 MHz frequency band for feeder links of non‑geostationary (non‑GSO) mobile‑satellite service (MSS) systems, in the Earth‑to‑space (E‑s) direction, on a primary basis under certain conditions included in No. 5.444A. The conditions were intended to protect international standard microwave landing systems (MLS) (which had priority over other uses in the band) and included a sunset date for assignments to the FSS in this band (a date after which no new assignments were to be made to the FSS). They also stipulated a date after which the FSS would become secondary to the aeronautical radionavigation service (ARNS). Resolution 114 requested the review of the allocation to ARNS and the FSS in the frequency band 5 091-5 150 MHz at a future competent conference.

At WRC-07, the priority to MLS was removed in the 5 091-5 150 MHz frequency band and the sunset date for assignments to the FSS was extended to 1 January 2016. The FSS allocation was also to be downgraded to secondary with respect to ARNS after 1 January 2018.

The FSS allocation is currently used by Globalstar for feeder links of their non‑GSO MSS system and the system has been coordinated with systems of other services since 1998. The Globalstar satellite system is expected to remain in service beyond the year 2025.

In addition, leading to WRC-12, ICAO had determined that not all of this band may be required for MLS but new ARNS systems may be planned. This agenda item sought to assess the compatibility of any "new" ARNS systems with feeder links of non‑GSO MSS systems in the frequency band 5 091-5 150 MHz and review the allocations for FSS and ARNS in the band with a view to removing the restrictions on FSS if possible.

Discussion

WRC-15 upgraded the FSS allocation in the band 5 091-5 150 MHz to primary status, subject to coordination under No. 9.11A, and removed the limitation that made non‑GSO feeder links secondary with regards to ARNS in MOD 5.444A. Coordination was imposed for non‑GSO MSS feeder‑link earth stations which are less than 450 km from the territory of an administration operating ARNS ground stations. Further, this new status of FSS was made effective immediately at the end of WRC-15, i.e. from November 28, 2015, rather than January 1, 2017 like the rest of the provisions of the Conference.

This WRC-15 decision aligns with the Canadian position. Therefore, the Department proposes to reflect the WRC-15 decision in the Canadian Table. This will ensure that Globalstar Canada's gateway earth stations in Canada, which connect satellite phones and Wi‑Fi enabled devices to the public switched telephone network via satellite, will continue to operate with regulatory certainty after 2018.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

Agenda item 1.8 was adopted to review the provisions relating to earth stations located on board vessels (ESVs), which operate in the FSS in the uplink bands 5 925-6 425 MHz and 14-14.5 GHz. WRC-15 was tasked to consider possible modification to Resolution 902 (WRC‑03) in order to reflect current ESV technologies and technical characteristics that are being used or planned to be used, while protecting allocated services. Resolution 902 (WRC‑03) specifies minimum distances from the low‑water mark as officially recognized by the coastal State, beyond which ESVs can operate without prior agreement of any administration.

Since Resolution 902 (WRC‑03) was first adopted in 2003, there have been many successful deployments of ESV systems. Technological developments allow ESVs to operate today with much lower transmit equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) densities towards terrestrial stations than those derived from the technical limitations described in Resolution 902 (WRC‑03). These reduced e.i.r.p. densities result in much lower interference potential into other co‑frequency terrestrial services. In some cases, the current rules require that an agreement be obtained from concerned administrations, even in situations where there is no potential for unacceptable interference.

Discussion

WRC‑15 decided to allow ESVs with a minimum antenna diameter of 1.2 m to operate in the frequency band 5925-6425 MHz, without prior agreement from any administration, when the ESV is located at least 330 km away from the low‑water mark. This represents a relaxation of the restrictions that are specified in Resolution 902 (WRC‑03), which were a minimum diameter of 2.4 m with a distance of 300 km for this band. These changes will be implemented by the modification of footnote 5.457A. WRC‑15 did not permit changes to the e.i.r.p. densities, nor were changes made with respect to ESVs operation in the frequency band 14-14.5 GHz, nor Resolution 902 (WRC‑03) because no agreement could be reached.

Although Canada held a neutral position at the WRC‑15 on this issue, Canada had no objection to the proposed changes because ESVs are still subject to the e.i.r.p. density limits in Resolution 902 (WRC‑03).

The Department is proposing to reflect the decisions of WRC‑15 by updating footnote 5.457A in the Canadian Table of Frequency Allocations. The Department believes that the proposed changes will not have a negative effect on the existing terrestrial environment because the e.i.r.p. densities toward the horizon were not changed, yet the changes will allow ESV operators to use earth stations with smaller antennas.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

WRC‑15 agenda item 1.9.2 called for studies on the possibility of allocating the frequency bands 7 375-7 750 MHz and 8 025-8 400 MHz to the maritime mobile‑satellite service (MMSS) and on additional regulatory measures necessary to ensure compatibility with existing services.

The frequency band 7 375-7 750 MHz is allocated on a primary basis to the fixed service (FS), mobile service (MS) (except aeronautical mobile) and FSS (space‑to‑Earth (s‑E)). The frequency band 7 450-7 550 MHz is also allocated on a primary basis to the meteorological‑satellite service (MetSat) (s‑E). The frequency band 7 450-7 550 MHz is also allocated on a primary basis to the meteorological‑satellite service (MetSat) (s-E). Similarly, the frequency band 8 025-8 400 MHz is currently allocated on a primary basis to the EESS (s-E), FS, MS and FSS (E-s). The frequency band 8 175-8 215 MHz is also allocated to the MetSat (E-s).

Discussion

WRC‑15 decided to allocate the MMSS only in the frequency band 7 375-7 750 MHz, in the downlink direction, and add a new footnote to protect the fixed and mobile services. The conditions of operation for the MMSS downlink specified in the footnote will ensure the protection of the incumbent terrestrial services. There was no change to the frequency band 8 025-8 400 MHz. The Department proposes not to reflect the WRC-15 decisions in the Canadian Table, given that

• the Canadian position on this agenda item was no change;
• only one administration was seeking the allocation at WRC‑15; and
• there is no foreseeable demand of MMSS spectrum within Canada in this frequency band.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Background

The objective of this agenda item was to study measures to ensure adequate protection of MSS systems operating in the frequency band 406-406.1 MHz, taking into account the current and future services operating in the lower adjacent frequency bands (390-406 MHz) and upper adjacent frequency bands (406.1-420 MHz), or in separate parts of these frequency bands.

The frequency band 406-406.1 MHz is exclusively allocated to the MSS, which is currently used by the Cospas‑Sarsat system for search and rescue (SAR) space segment instruments for the reception of distress radio beacon signals in the frequency band 406-406.1 MHz. Many administrations have deployed commercial land mobile systems operating near the frequency band 406-406.1 MHz, and other terrestrial operators are expected to request additional capacity near this frequency band in the future. The emissions in adjacent frequency bands, if not adequately controlled, could raise the level of noise captured by the Cospas‑Sarsat systems and hinder their abilities to detect and/or relay signal, from beacons and/or degrade the accuracy of the positions reported for the distress signals.

Discussion

WRC‑15 agreed to request administrations to stop making new frequency assignments within the frequency bands 405.9-406 MHz and 406.1-406.2 MHz, and to take into account frequency drift characteristics of radiosondes when selecting their operating frequencies above 405 MHz. The Department proposes to adopt the decision at WRC‑15. This decision is reflected by adding footnote 5.265 to the Canadian Table. The decision is important for search‑and‑rescue missions in Canada, given that Canada actively participates in the Cospas‑Sarsat project and has one of the largest search‑and‑rescue areas in the world.

Summary of proposed changes to the Canadian Table

Part E — Modifications to international footnotes in the Canadian Table

Resolution 26 (Rev. WRC‑97) urges administrations to review footnotes periodically and to propose the deletion of their country footnotes or of their country names from footnotes, as appropriate. In exceptional cases, Resolution 26 provides that proposals for new footnotes or modifications of existing footnotes can be considered if they concern corrections of obvious omissions, inconsistencies, ambiguities or editorial error. 'Resolves 2' to Resolution 26 states that the International Table should include those footnotes that have international implications for the use of radio frequency spectrum.

Based on the above, a number of international footnotes, also included in the Canadian Table, were modified at WRC‑15 based upon proposals from administrations. The Department proposes to adopt the modifications to these footnotes as follows:

WRC‑15 also modified numerous footnotes, as well as certain entries in the International Table of Article 5 to correct editorial errors, inconsistencies or outdated provisions under Agenda item 9.2.^{Footnote 6} It also updated references to ITU-R Recommendations incorporated by reference under Agenda item 2, and updated references to resolutions and recommendations reviewed under Agenda item 4.

The Department proposes to adopt all these modifications that are applicable to Canada in this edition of the Canadian Table. The following international footnotes are proposed, either for modification or suppression:

Part F — Other modifications to the Canadian Table

This section proposes revisions to the Canadian Table to include the results of any applicable domestic spectrum policy decisions where no proposal was provided with respect to the modification of the Canadian Table to implement the decision, as well as revisions needed as a result of any inconsistencies found during the review of the previous CTFA.

Spectrum policy decisions dealing with domestic allocation or footnotes changes that have been approved through their own consultation process are generally not discussed again in this consultation paper before being incorporated in the final edition of the Canadian Table. However in the case of decision paper Spectrum Licensing Policy Branch SLPB-008-14, Decision on a Policy, Technical and Licensing Framework for Mobile‑Satellite Service and Advanced Wireless Service (AWS-4) in the Bands 2 000-2 020 MHz and 2 180-2 200 MHz on the MSS/ancillary terrestrial component (ATC), which was released in December 2014, after publication of the 2014 version of the Canadian Table, no concrete text was provided with respect to modification of the Canadian Table to implement the decision. The Department proposes to modify Canadian footnote C36, taking into account the SLPB-008-14 decision. The proposal is intended to clarify which type of fixed systems would be allowed to operate in these frequency bands, and under what conditions.

In the SLPB-008-14 decision, in response to Xplornet's proposal to allow the 2 GHz licensee the flexibility to deploy fixed terrestrial systems in addition to mobile ones, the Department noted that Spectrum Utilization Policy SP 1-3 GHz, Amendments to the Microwave Spectrum Utilization Policies in the 1-3 GHz Frequency Range indicates that coordination between the fixed point‑to‑point backhaul operations and the MSS would be impractical. In the past, fixed systems were displaced to other bands. However, the Department noted that fixed wireless access systems, given their technical similarities to mobile terrestrial systems, could potentially coexist with MSS in the 2 GHz band and would be unlikely to cause any additional interference to the MSS, if they were operated by the same licensee or closely coordinated with the MSS/ATC licensee. Allowing additional flexibility for the 2 GHz licensee to use fixed systems, as well as mobile ATC, would depend on the specifics of the proposed fixed systems.

The Department indicated that given its objectives for the 2 GHz band as stated in the SLPB-008-14 decision, fixed systems that support the MSS or ATC systems of the existing licensee may be permitted as long as they adhere to the technical requirements set out for ATC in this band. Fixed systems that are separate from the MSS or ATC systems would require an application from the MSS/ATC licensee. Upon receipt, the Department would assess the application and make a determination based on the specifics of the application.

We therefore propose to modify footnote C36 in the bands 2 000-2 020 and 2 180-2 200 MHz to align with the decision to allow such fixed systems in the band.

During the review of the Canadian Table, we found the following three inconsistencies for the frequency bands 216-220 MHz, 17.3-17.7 GHz, 17.7 -17.8 GHz, 24.75-25.05 GHz and 25.25-25.5 GHz.

A — The Department proposes to segment the frequency band 216-220 MHz in the Canadian Table to be consistent with Canadian footnote C11. Note that there is no amateur service allocated internationally in the frequency band 216-220 MHz

B — Footnote C44 is no longer applicable to the frequency bands 17.3-17.7 GHz, 17.7-17.8 GHz and 24.75-25.05 GHz following the decision SMSE-003-14, Decision on the Use of the Frequency Band 25.05-25.25 GHz. Although decision SMSE-003-14 revised the text of footnote C44 to remove reference to the bands 17.3-17.7 GHz, 17.7 17.8 GHz and 24.75-25.05 GHz, there was no proposal at that time to remove footnote C44 from the relevant parts in the Canadian Table. The Department proposes the following for this consultation.

C — For the frequency band 25.25-25.5 GHz, there is no Earth exploration‑satellite service allocation internationally, but the Canadian Table includes a secondary allocation. We propose to remove this secondary allocation from the Canadian Table, as shown below.

This section proposes revisions to some Canadian footnotes in order to align with updated spectrum policies/information or to clarify the language. In addition, any footnote that is indicated as suppressed in the Canadian Table (Edition 2014) will be permanently removed from the new 2017 edition. As such, the following Canadian footnotes will be permanently removed: C8, C16B, C18, C22, C28, C29, C30, C31 and C38A. Moreover, in line with the current practice at ITU-R, the Department proposes to add "frequency" in front of "band" where appropriate for all Canadian footnotes.

The following modifications to footnotes are proposed to clarify the language:

The following footnotes are proposed either for update with the latest information or for deletion:

Appendix A — Acronyms used in this document