Federated Wireless Advocates 4 GHz Band as Key to U.S. 6G Leadership

Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 19, Federated Wireless, a leader in shared spectrum solutions, has released a position paper titled “Why the U.S. Must Prioritize the 4 GHz Band for 6G,” outlining the strategic importance of the 4.4–4.94 GHz band for advancing U.S. leadership in next-generation wireless networks. The paper emphasizes the band’s potential to support high-capacity, AI-driven 6G networks and align with global standards.

The 4 GHz band offers a contiguous 500 MHz block, ideal for 6G’s high-capacity requirements and compatible with existing 5G ecosystems via 3GPP Band n79. Unlike the 3 GHz band, which faces challenges from fragmented sub-bands and complex Department of Defense (DoD) operations, the 4 GHz band is primarily used for well-defined DoD radar and tactical systems, enabling practical federal-commercial sharing frameworks. This makes it a viable candidate for meeting the 500 MHz spectrum reallocation mandate under the recently passed bipartisan legislation.

Iyad Tarazi, CEO of Federated Wireless, stated: “If 6G is the wireless industry’s current version of the space race, the 4 GHz band is our Saturn V. It’s the rare convergence of technical feasibility, global momentum, and regulatory readiness. While the rest of the world is moving fast to harmonize midband spectrum for 6G, we risk falling behind if we continue to patch together fragmented spectrum strategies in the 3 GHz range.”

Kurt Schaubach, CTO of Federated Wireless, added: “6G isn’t just about faster networks—it’s about redefining connectivity through AI, sensing, and dynamic spectrum use. The 4 GHz band gives us a clear target to rally around, solve technical challenges quickly, and lead the world into the next wireless era.”

The paper highlights the band’s suitability for innovations like AI-RAN, integrated sensing and communication, and AI-driven spectrum optimization, positioning the U.S. to influence global 6G standards starting in Fall 2025. It also aligns with the legislative requirement for federal agencies, including the NTIA, DoD, and FCC, to reallocate 500 MHz of spectrum for commercial use, offering a manageable solution that preserves existing shared spectrum models like CBRS.

This initiative underscores Federated Wireless’s commitment to fostering innovation in wireless technology, ensuring the U.S. remains competitive in the global 6G landscape while supporting efficient spectrum use and technological advancement.