Draft CEPT Brief on AI XX 1.5 - Draft Brief.docx · Web viewTaking into account that a world radiocommunication ... for some GSO SRS networks for which API has been received prior

Doc. CPG15(15)055 Annex IV-05

CPG15-7

Porto, Portugal 2nd - 5th June 2015

Date issued: 17th June 2015

Source: Minutes CPG15-7

Subject: Draft CEPT Brief on WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.5

Summary:

Proposal:

Editor's Note 1: The yellow highlighted text is not discussed (including proposed deleted text) or no common view could be generated

Draft CEPT Brief on AI 1.5 - Page 2

DRAFT CEPT BRIEF ON AGENDA ITEM 1.5

1.5 to consider the use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service not subject to Appendices 30, 30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, in accordance with Resolution 153 (WRC-12);

1 ISSUE

[WRC-12 decided under AI 1.3 to allocate spectrum to the AM(R)S and decided on provision for AMS(R)S in the 5GHz range in accordance with spectrum requirements in Report ITU-R M.2171. However, with Resolution 153 (WRC12) the conference under considering i) “that it is necessary to take into account existing and future satellite networks and planning for the growth of the use of FSS resources for UAS” decided to invite ITU-R

OR

Resolution 153 (WRC-12) invites ITU-R]

1. to conduct, in time for WRC-15, the necessary studies leading to technical, regulatory and operational recommendations to the Conference, enabling that Conference to decide on the usage of FSS for the control and non-payload communications (CNPC) links for the operation of UAS;

2. to include, in the studies referred to in invites ITU-R 1, sharing and compatibility studies with services already having allocations in those bands;

3. to take into account information from operations referred to in considering e)

4. with considering e) that UAS already operate in fixed-satellite service (FSS) frequency bands for the UA to satellite CNPC links under No. 4.4 of the Radio Regulations.

[Editor's Note 2:] This operation takes place in segregated airspace (see 1).

Resolution 153 (WRC-12) invites ITU-R to conduct, in time for WRC-15, the necessary studies enabling the Conference to decide on the usage of fixed-satellite service (FSS) for the CNPC links for the safe operation of UAS in non-segregated airspace. These studies will include compatibility studies with incumbent services.

[2] PRELIMINARY CEPT POSITION

CEPT supports continuing the necessary studies leading to technical, regulatory and operational recommendations to WRC-15 as invited by Resolution 153 (WRC-12), enabling the Conference to decide on the usage of FSS for the CNPC links for the safe operation of UAS in non-segregated airspace.

CEPT is of the view that in the absence of information from ICAO as to their requirements a parametric approach to the studies is the best that can be achieved.

2 BACKGROUND

2.1 INTRODUCTION

UAS CNPC links are under consideration at ITU since 2007. WRC-12 Agenda Item 1.3 dealt with terrestrial and satellite spectrum requirements to support the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems in non-segregated airspace, and ensured that sufficient spectrum is available (cf. ECP).


In addition, as UA in segregated airspace already operate for several years in FSS frequency bands under No. 4.4 of the Radio Regulations for the UA-to-satellite CNPC links (see considering e) of Resolution 153 (WRC-12)), Agenda Item 1.5 intends to to consider the use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service not subject to Appendices 30, 30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, in accordance with Resolution 153 (WRC-12).

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) consist of an unmanned aircraft (UA) with an Earth station on-board and an associated unmanned aircraft control station (UACS) connected via satellite links used to facilitate beyond line-of-sight (BLOS) control and non-payload communication (CNPC) as shown in Figure 1. Under WRC-15 AI 1.5 the use of FSS frequency bands for UAS CNPC links are considered for the possible implementation of theise links when the UA is in non-segregated airspace. In ICAO UAS are referred to as remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS). In line with the Convention on International Civil Aviation a pilot will be responsible for the entire flight.

Figure 1

UA operations are currently limited to segregated airspace. This agenda item seeks to facilitate the expansion of such operations into non-segregated airspace1.

The development of UAS is based on recent technological advances in aviation, electronics and structural materials, making the widespread use of UA more viable. The current state of the art in UAS design and operation would already allow for a rapid development of UAS to serve many commercial, scientific, and public applications. For safe flight operations of UA, reliable communication links are essential especially for the link between the remote pilot and the UA that will be used for command and control and to relay air traffic communications. In ITU-R, links carrying all this information are referred to as CNPC links. [WRC-12 AI 1.3 considered the spectrum requirements to support the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems in non-segregated airspace.]

[The protection criteria for Earth stations on-board unmanned aircraft (Link 2) is expected to be established in accordance with the link performance requirements (SARPS) eventually to be determined by ICAO. Since studies to define these requirements in ICAO are still ongoing, the studies conducted in ITU-R qualifies the (probability considered instead a range of potential future protection criteria for I/N parametrically for of a given I/N would be exceeded.

OR

1 Segregated airspace is defined as airspace of specified dimensions allocated for exclusive use to a specific user(s). Non-segregated airspace is airspace other than that designated as segregated.


For WRC-15 AI 1.5 the characteristics of an earth station on-board the UA are considered to be consistent with those of an FSS Earth station. [This is implies a long-term protection based on ITU-R S.1432]. Due to mobile nature of the Earth station on-board aircraft the time-variant effects dominate the CNPC links. Consequently, a short term protection criteria for Earth stations on-board unmanned aircraft (Link 2) need to be derived from the link performance requirements as defined in future ICAO SARPS when available. Therefore, the results of ITU-R studies provide fade and interfade duration depending on a parametric range of I/N thresholds.]

ICAO has yet to provide detailed information about the required UAS performance in terms of availability, continuity and reliability on which protection criteria can be developed and hence it has not been possible to determine whether an existing FSS satellite system could support UAS CNPC.

Studies in [WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS]] investigated the link feasibilities and sharing conditions with incumbent terrestrial services for using UAS CNPC links over typical frequency spectrum allocated in several FSS allocations, using a parametric approach. This Report also contains proposed technical characteristics for UAS which form the basis for all studies described in this Report. There is still a need to finalise the studies.

The characteristics of UAS as used in the above mentioned Report are also defined in PDN Recommendation ITU-R S.[UAS-FSS]

[2.2] REGULATORY CONSIDERATIONS

[WRC 12 AI 1.3 considered the spectrum requirements to support the safe operation of unmanned aircraft systems in non-segregated airspace.

CEPT Position was:

“no new allocations are required as there are enough frequency bands to accommodate the spectrum requirement for the satellite component and no new or modified procedures/provisions are needed for the existing satellite allocations.” (see Addendum 3 to WRC-12 contribution 5)

WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.5 is to be considered as ain the continuation of WRC-12 Agenda Item 1.3 due to the intent to analyse the extension to non-segregated airspace of current UA systems operating in segregated airspace within FSS frequency band where capacity is available (i.e. considering e) of Resolution 153 (WRC12)).]

[2.2.1] Fixed satellite service frequency bands studied for UAS CNPCnot subject to appendices 30, 30A, 30B

The considerations on frequency bands considered are in covered the 11/14 GHz and 20/30 GHz bands.

The frequency bands allocated to the FSS not subject to Appendices 30, 30A, and 30B have been used for a multitude of UA CNPC link in segregated airspace for several years. To date, these UAS CNPC links, operating under No. 4.4 of the Radio Regulations. As satellite systems operating on these FSS bands currently support UAS CNPC, globally harmonized bands are anticipated to avoid numerous radio equipment on-board of UA.

In consideration of recognizing b) of Resolution 153 (WRC-12), the ITU-R Report [WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS]] studies the regulatory, technical, and operational aspects of using UA CNPC in FSS geo-stationary orbit (GSO) networks operating in frequency bands allocated to the FSS as listed in Table 1 and Table 2, which are not subject to the provisions of RR Appendices 30, 30A and 30B.

Incumbent services (primary and secondary) in each of these bands are taken from RR Article 5, taking table entries as well as entries by footnote into account for sharing analyses.


Table 1: Frequency bands in 14/11 GHz allocated to the fixed satellite service not subject to Radio Regulations Appendices 30, 30A and 30B investigated for unmanned aircraft control and non-

payload communication applications

Link Frequency band Allocated to Direction Provisions

Available areas for FSSRemarks

L3

(UA to SAT)

(U/L)

14.0-14.25 GHzFSS, RNS, MSS, SRS, AMSS, FS

Earth to space

RR Nos. 5.457A, 5.457B, 5.484A, 5.506, 5.506B, 5.504, 5.504B, 5.504C, 5.506A, 5.504A, 5.505

R1, R2, R3

14.25-14.3 GHzFSS, RNS, MSS, SRS, FS

Earth to space

RR Nos. 5.457A, 5.457B, 5.484A, 5.506, 5.506B, 5.504, 5.504B, 5.506A, 5.508A, 5.504, 5.505, 5.508

R1, R2, R3

14.3-14.4 GHz FSS, FS, MS, MSS, Earth to space

RR Nos. 5.457A, 5.457B, 5.484A, 5.506, 5.506A, 5.506B, 5.504B, 5.506A, 5.509A, 5.504A

R1, R2, R3

14.4-14.47 GHz FSS, FS, MS, MSS, SRS Earth to space

RR Nos. 5.457A, 5.457B, 5.484A, 5.506, 5.506B, 5.504B, 5.506A, 5.509A, 5.504A

R1, R2, R3

14.547-14.58 GHz

FSS, FS, MS, srsMSSmss, RASras

Earth to space

RR Nos. 5.457A, 5.457B, 5.484A, 5.506, 5.506B, 5.504B, 5.506A, 5.509A, 5.504A, 5.149RR No. 5.510

R1(partially), R2, R3

L2

(SAT to UA)(D/L)

10.795-11.27 GHz FSS, FS, MS

Space-to-EarthEarth-to-space(R1)

RR Nos. 5.441, 5.484A, 5.484 (R1)

R1, R2, R3(Note 1)

11.45-11.7 GHz FSS, FS, MS, RR Nos. 5.441, 5.484A, 5.484 R1, R2, R3

11.7-12.2 GHz FSS, FS, MS,Space-to-Earth(R2)

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.488 R2

12.5-12.75 GHz

FSS (s-E and E-s in R1), BSS (R3), FS, MS

Space-to-Earth(R1+R3)Earth-to-space(R1+R2)

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.493, 5.494, 5.495, 5.496 R1, R3

NOTE 1 – The frequency band 14.5-14.8GHz is only for BSS feeder link and not authorized in Europe (see 5.510).The portions 10.7-10.95 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 11.2-11.45 GHz (space-to-Earth) of the band are subject to provisions of RR Appendix 30B. (See RR No. 5.441.)

NOTE 2 – In Region 1, the use of the band 10.7-11.7 GHz by the fixed-satellite service (Earth-to-space) is limited to feeder links for the broadcasting-satellite service (see RR No. 5.484).

Table 2: Frequency bands in 30/20 GHz allocated to the fixed satellite service not subject to appendices 30, 30A and 30B investigated for unmanned aircraft control and non-payload

communication applications


Link Frequency band Allocated to Direction Provisions

Available areas for FSSRemarks

L3

(UA to SAT)

(U/L)

27.5-28.5 GHz FSS, FS, MS Earth-to-space

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.537A, 5.538, 5.539, 5.540

R1, R2, R3

28.5-29.1 GHz FSS, FS, MS, EESS eess (E-s)

Earth-to-space

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.523A, 5.539, 5.540, 5.541

R1, R2, R3

29.1-29.5 GHz FSS, FS, MS, EESS eess (E-s)

Earth-to-space

RR Nos. 5.516B, 5.523C, 5.523E, 5.535A, 5.539, 5.540, 5.541A

R1, R2, R3

29.5-29.9 GHz

FSS, EESS eess (E-s), MSS (E-sR2) / mss (R1,R3), FS, MS

Earth-to-space

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.525, 5.526, 5.527, 5.529, 5.539, 5.540, 5.541, 5.542

R1, R2, R3

29.9-30.0 GHzFSS, MSS, EESS eess (E-s), fsFS, msMS

Earth-to-space

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.525, 5.526, 5.527, 5.538, 5.539, 5.540, 5.541, 5.542, 5.543

R1, R2, R3

L2

(SAT to UA)

(D/L)

17.3 – 17.7 GHz

FSS, FS, rls, fs, msMS

Earth-to-space (R1)space-to-Earth

RR Nos. 5.516, 5.516A, 5.516B, 5.514 R1, R3

17.7 – 18.1 GHz

FSS (s-E and E-s), FS, MS, MeteoSat Service (R2), BSS (R2)

RR Nos. 5.584A, 5.515, 5.516, 5.517, 5.519 R1, R2, R3

18.1 – 18.4 GHz

FSS, FS, MS, Meteo.Sat Service

space-to-Earth

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.519, 5.520, 5.521 R1, R2, R3

18.4-18.6 GHz FSS, FS, MS space-to-Earth RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B R1, R2, R3

18.6-18.8 GHzFSS, EESS (passive), FS, MS, SRS

space-to-Earth

RR Nos. 5.516B, 5.522A, 5.522B, 5.522C R1, R2, R3

18.8-19.3 GHz FSS, FS, MS RR Nos. 5.516B, 5.523 R1, R2, R3

19.3-19.7 GHz FSS (s-E and E-s), FS, MS

RR Nos. 5.523B, 5.523C, 5.523D, 5.523E

R1, R2, R3

19.7-20.1 GHzFSS, MSS (R2) / mss (R1,R3), FS, MS

space-to-Earth

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.524, 5.525, 5.526, 5.527, 5.528, 5.529

R1, R2, R3

20.1-20.2 GHz FSS, MSS,FS,MS space-to-Earth

RR Nos. 5.484A, 5.516B, 5.524, 5.525, 5.526, 5.527, 5.528

R1, R2, R3

NOTE 3 – The frequency range 17.3-18.1GHz is ruled by the appendix 30A.


2.1.1 Identification in the Radio Regulation of FSS frequency bands for UAS CNPC

WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.5 should not preclude the use of mobile satellite services for UAS useCNPC links in non-segregated airspaceuse.. If the conclusion of studies is that certain FSS allocations can also be used for these operations under certain conditions, The use of FSS for UASthis The use of FSS for UAS may be allowed via a specific Resolution referred in an appropriate footnote without any reference to UAS.

These bands are being considered for the use of CNPC links which, if such use were found to be possible, would require additional radio regulatory provisions.]

It is also important to ensure that the use of FSS under mobility conditions for UAS CNPC does not constrain in any way its use for other FSS applications, as well as other services having allocations in corresponding bands.

[Studies for UAS CNPC application in the above mentioned frequency bands have shown feasibility regarding link performance and sharing conditions. The appropriate use of one or more of these bands for CNPC can ensure safe link conditions.]

2.1.2[2.2.2] No ambiguity in the Radio Regulations

2.1.2.1 Regulatory considerations about the status of an earth station on board an unmanned aircraft

[In regulatory term the class of the Earth station on-board an UA and that of the space station (FSS) do not match as the class of the station on-board an UA is ”TJ” and the class of station of the space station is “EC”.

OR

Stations on-board an UA operating in the FSS under the special provisions of RR 4.4 do not match with available station classes defined under RR 1. Therefore current practicse in operating UAS CNPC in FSS under special provision of RR 4.4 the class of station on-board UA is assumed to be ”TJ” and the class of station of the space station is “EC”.]

In view of the characteristics of UAS transceivers (operation at high altitude, mobility) the risk of interference potential and interference vulnerability may be different (greater) than the ones established within the actual regulatory provisions to determine compatibility between systems. This may lead to new difficulties in sharing the bands with e.g. terrestrial services that should be further considered. [A question on whether the FSS definition requires earth stations to be at fixed points was raised. It was also asked whether, in case RR provisions, e.g., a footnote, were added to allow UAS to communicate with space stations operating in the FSS, that UAS would be considered operating on a non-interference/non-protection basis as not conforming with the definitions contained in RR Article 1. Taking into account that a world radiocommunication conference (WRC) is the highest decision-making body on international regulations about radiocommunications, a straightforward reply from the BR to the question formulated above would be: if a WRC approves a provision, e.g. a footnote, allowing UA earth stations to communicate with FSS stations under some sharing conditions aimed at ensuring compatibility and this provision provides the status of earth stations on board UA equal to others services in the allocated band, then such UAS would not be considered as operating on a non-interference/non-protection basis.] [From a regulatory standpoint a footnote in Article 5 allowing an earth station on board an aircraft to operate with space stations in the FSS could be interpreted that the UAS earth stations are being incorporated into the FSS. This would be inconsistent with Article 1 definitions, in particular those for the fixed-satellite service (No. 1.21) and an aircraft station (No.1.84).]

[In the past where it has been desired to allow the operation of a communication service other than FSS within FSS this has been achieved through the use of an additional ‘supporting’ allocation to the appropriate service, in order to avoid regulatory inconsistency. [However WRC-15 may decide to allow communication of an earth station on board an aircraft with an FSS space station without the need of an additional allocation.]]


[2.2.2.1] No ambiguity in the Radio RegulationsRegulatory considerations about the mobile satellite service vs the fixed satellite service for the UAS CNPC link

[From a regulatory standpoint a footnote in Article 5 allowing an earth station on board an aircraft to operate with space stations in the FSS could be interpreted that the UAS earth stations are being incorporated into the FSS. This would be inconsistent with Article 1 definitions, in particular those for the fixed-satellite service (No. 1.21) and an aircraft station (No.1.84).]

In the past where it has been desired to allow the operation of a communication service other than FSS within FSS this has been achieved through the use of an additional ‘supporting’ allocation to the appropriate service, in order to avoid regulatory inconsistency.

[When an allocation to the Mobile Satellite Service, that does not exclude aeronautical applications, is available in a frequency band also allocated to the Fixed Satellite Service, the most appropriate service under which the CNPC link should operate is this Mobile Satellite Service.]

[Certain frequency bands allocated to FSS and considered under WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.5 are also allocated to the mobile-satellite service (MSS) with provisions making the consideration of these allocations for UAS CNPC links in non-segregated airspace difficult. This is for instance the case of No. 5.527 which states that “in the bands 19.7-20.2 GHz and 29.5-30 GHz, the provisions of No. 4.10 do not apply with respect to the mobile-satellite service”, and therefore might forbid the use of this band by aircraft earth stations for safety applications.]

[It may be necessary to revise this provision, in case of positive outcomes of studies on the use of FSS for UAS CNPC links. Otherwise, this would create a difficult situation where “FSS earth stations on aircraft” for UAS CNPC links would be in accordance with the Radio Regulations, while aircraft earth stations (i.e. operated in the mobile-satellite service) would not. Resulting ambiguity may prevent ICAO from eventually considering the development of SARPS in these bands.]

It has also to be noted that in the frequency band 14-14.5GHz, earth stations aboard aircraft operating in the secondary basis mobile satellite service have to be compliant with a pfd mask to protect the fixed service. Such type of constraints should also have to be applied for UAS operating in the FSS.

2.1.3[2.2.3] Coordination and notification of FSS Systems

The ITU-R Radicommunication Bureau provided to ITU-R Working Party 5B (5B/301) a summary of the status of frequency assignments recorded in the MIFR (status 50) in the bands 14/11-14.5 GHz, 10-95-12.75 GHz, 17.7 20.2 GHz and 27.5-30/20 GHz. This contribution stated that coordination is completed for 15 415 assignments (as of 20 July 2012) listed in the MIFR with the status coordination completed. As a consequence, there is a significant number ofICAO may consider that UAS CNPC link applications would require fully coordinated FSS assignments which have the potential to be used for UAS CNPC link applications.

[The use of FSS space stations or networks for UAS CNPC applications is, like any other FSS application, optional. FSS operators may offer this application through their networks.]

Whichever way UAS CNPC is implemented, the frequency coordination and notification process as defined in the ITU RR Art. 9 and Art 11 for current and future FSS networks should not be changed. It is necessary to investigate if this process is appropriate to ensure that FSS applications sharing the same frequency bands will protect UAS systems from interference, without incurring additional constraints due to specific protection requirements.

[Furthermore, uThen, the feasibity of use of FSS assignments notified with the application of RR No. 11.41 for UAS CNPC links should shouldmay be carefully assessed have to be avoided,, as such assignments have not fully completed their coordination requirements., and are therefore more susceptible to interference than FSS assignments notified without the application of RR No. 11.41.

Note: drafting session considered the document till here


However all coordinations between states on FSS may not be appropriate for UAS CNPC links and could not prevent from all possible cases of interferences. For such uses that would additional constraints may be required or may increase the risk of interferences of assignments recorded in the MIFR.However, these procedures could not prevent from all possible cases of interferences. Indeed, the CNPC links performances objectives may not be met in term of protection against interruptions due to interference events, when considering the operations of current FSS systems, independently of any provision in Radio Regulations.]

[IfThe regulatory provisions for UAS CNPC links uses under the FSS safety aspects should not lead to any additional constraints be given consideration during the coordination process of satellite networks, this may lead to additional constraints . The UAS CNPC links should not request due to the increased protection requirements due to theof safety aspect of this application compared to more traditional FSS ones.]

2.1.4[2.2.4] Consideration of safety aspects

[A number of references to safety requirements are noted. Safety issues are important and they are addressed by the Resolution 153 (WRC-12), as well as in the ICAO requirements and the Radio Regulations provision RR No. 4.10.

The regulatory provisions concerning the safety aspects above requirements need to be defined to translate in terms of technical or operational specifications for UAS CNPC links under FSS in accordance with the following requirements: Current FSS coordination procedure between administrations cannot ensure the safe operations for UAS

CNPC links, Additional constraints on existing FSS applications or incumbent terrestrial services have to be avoided; Current incumbent services including current FSS applications have to be protected. of safety should be interpreted as:

That the UAS CNPC links should be robust enough to ensure they can serve to maintain safe command and control of the unmanned aircraft. This may include sufficient link margin and other technical and operational provisions.

Safe operation should be achieved by identifying the frequencies in which FSS CNPC link should operate, through appropriate regulatory provisions. In 2014, ICAO is planning the development of associated standards and recommended practices

(SARPs) taking into account the above as well as conclusions from the WRC 2015 relevant for this agenda item.

In case administrations wished to use FSS frequency assignments for UAS CNPC links, they should use measures in order to be consistent with Article 4.10.

The following points highlight operational safety: In the coordination and notification procedures under Articles 9 and 11 satellite operators carry out their

duties under the responsibility of their respective administrations; the degree of safe and predictable operation of the UAS depends amongst others on the detailed

arrangements made in the coordination of the used satellite network; the licensing conditions of the various countries involved in the operation; the contractual arrangements of the used satellite network with their end users and measures to ensure

the protection obtained through the conditions agreed in the coordination procedures.]

Based on guidelines liaised by ICAO to ITU-R, CEPT supports the following points regarding regulatory conditions: the operational conditions will be handled in ICAO and not in the ITU; UAS CNPC will use frequency assignments that are successfully coordinated. [Innovative measures to detect and prosecute harmful interferences are being developed by international

agreements [in ITU].] That regulatory provisions will have to be developed to address ICAO’s need for aeronautical systems to

operate in spectrum allocated to an appropriate aeronautical safety service


ITU and ICAO continue to carry out their mutual responsibilities in a cooperative manner

[2.3] TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS

[2.3.1] System architecture and operational conditionsIntroduction

Resolution 153 addresses FSS in general without pointing towards specific system architectures or specific frequency ranges. Technical characteristics of FSS systems are taken from PDN Recommendation ITU-R S.[FSS-REF for UAS-FSS] developed by WP4A. Studies in [WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS]] investigated the link feasibilities and sharing conditions with incumbent terrestrial services for using UAS CNPC links over typical frequency spectrum allocated toin several FSS allocations, using a parametric approach. This Report also contains proposed technical characteristics for UAS which form the basis for all studies described in this Report. There is still a need to finalise the studies.

The characteristics of UAS as used in the above mentioned Report are also defined in PDN Recommendation ITU-R S.[UAS-FSS]

It is recognized that UAS already operate in fixed-satellite service (FSS) frequency bands for the UA-to-satellite CNPC links under RR No. 4.4 in segregated airspace.

[2.3.2] System architecture and operational conditions

In accordance with considering e) and recognizing b) of Resolution 153, ITU-R WP5B is conducting studies on CNPC links over geostationary (GSO) FSS systems which include a number of assumptions. One of the assumptions in the WDPDN Report [UAS-FSS] is that station on board the UA has parameters similar to an FSS earth station. The sharing studies should use these parameters.

Another assumption is that studies are performed for typical flight scenarios of UA/RPAS as defined by ICAO

2.1.5 Incumbent services considerations

It is important to ensure that the use of FSS under mobility conditions for UAS CNPC does not constrain in any way other services having allocations in corresponding bands. It has also to be noted that in the frequency band 14-14.5GHz, earth stations on board aircraft operating in the secondary basis mobile satellite service have to be compliant with a pfd mask to protect the fixed service. Such type of constraints has to be applied for UAS operating in the FSS.

2.1.6 Frequency bands

Regarding frequency bands investigated, the studies complied with the given exclusions in Resolution 153 for FSS frequency bands subject to the Plans or Lists in Appendices 30, 30A and 30B. Studies concentrate on the frequency ranges around the 10/14 GHz and 20/30 GHz allocated to FSS.

For the frequency ranges [10.95-14.5 GHz, 17.8-20.2 GHz, and 27.5-30.0 GHz], the characteristics of hypothetical FSS-UAS systems were developed in ITU-R WP4A resulting in PDN Recommendation ITU-R S.[UAS-FSS];

[Sharing studies performed in ITU-R WP5B, address compatibility of an FSS UAS CNPC with incumbent services in the above frequency bands under conditions given by typical flight scenarios]

ICAO guidelines express preference for worldwide allocations. Nevertheless, regional allocations in some frequency ranges (e.g. 11.7-12.75 GHz) should also be considered;

Specific considerations may need to be derived in the frequency range 20/30 GHz regarding the compatibility between UAS CNPC links operations on GSO FSS networks and NGSO FSS systems operations, in parts of


the FSS allocation where GSO networks are subject to coordination with NGSO systems (i.e. 18.8/19.7 GHz and 28.6/29.5 GHz).

The consideration of UAS CNPC has been limited to frequencies above 10 GHz, mainly driven by the need for small aperture terminals while keeping the required directivity.

[2.3.3] Achievable FSS UAS CNPC link performance

Annex 1 of WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS] defines the typical characteristics of FSS space stations and Earth stations on-board UA. Annex 2 of WDPDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS] calculate the link performance for some scenarios provided by ICAO. ITU-R WP5B liaised with ICAO to clarify the minimum required link availability. Specific values and their applicability are still under consideration. Studies have therefore been performed to analyse link availability performances parametrically. These studies have not taken into account the impact of the cumulative interference from all of the systems operating in the relevant frequency bands.

Annex 3 of this Report defines a number of measures and mitigation techniques which may improve the link performance.

[Study results in this Report show link margins for links 2 and 3 of up to 20 dB in 14/11 GHz and 33 dB in the 30/20 GHz frequency range. Apportionment of these margins allows for compensating environmental conditions and safety margins, as appropriate.]

[2.3.4] FSS UAS protection criterion and sharing conditions

ICAO has not yet provided detailed information about the required UAS performance in non-segregated airspace, in terms of availability, continuity and reliability on which protection criteria can be developed. Hence it has not been possible to determine whether an existing FSS satellite system could support UAS CNPC.

Current studies assume that the Earth station on-board an unmanned aircraft is to be considered as an Earth station on-board an UA operated in the FSS. Therefore, tThe applicable protection criterion for such a currentn [FSS] Earth Station is given by Recommendation ITU-R S.1432. However, this Recommendation covers only the cases of time-invariant interference cases.

The influence of time-variant (short-term) interference due to potential interference caused by FS stations into the onboard FSS receiver due to the dynamic nature of UAS operations is additionally studied with methods offered by ITU-R SF.1006 and Recommendation ITU-R S.1323-2.

It is also important to ensure that the use of FSS under mobility conditions for UAS CNPC does not constrain in any way its use for other FSS applications, as well as other services having allocations in corresponding bands.

[Protection criteria of UA station receiver were not possible to be agreed within the ITU-R. This prevents the ITU-R to establish whether UAS CNPC links can operate safely in bands allocated to the FSS.]

2.2[2.4] OPERATIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

The studies are performed for typical flight scenarios of UA/RPAS as defined by ICAO.

[It is mandatory that UA flights will be under the full control of air traffic control authorities and flights occur at any time under planned and controlled conditions.

or

When flying in controlled airspace UA will be under the control of air traffic and have to be able to react to their instructions in a manner consistent with manned aircraft]. The physical environment of UA relevant for


the CNPC assessments is mainly determined by the antenna pointing error on one side (mainly affecting the link budgets and the impact on other existing FSS networks) and the losses due to the fuselage shielding (mainly affecting the interference to / from stations operating in the fixed service) on the other side. The fuselage attenuations when considered in the studies are those of a commercial aircraft.

Considering g) of Resolution 153 (WRC-12) raises the need for introducing mitigation options. This request is taken into account through considerations on vVarious mitigation measures provided are introduced in WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS].

Based on tTechnical analysis under consideration, and to ensure the protection of FS, the use of the FSS for CNPC links is limited to a minimum altitude ofconcludes that in order to protect the fixed service BLOS CNPC for UAs should be limited to flight level above [3000] feet. over land. This constraint does not apply for frequency bands which are not shared with the fixed service and may not apply over the sea.

Minimum elevation angles for CNPC links to geostationary satellite show that these links can only be used for UA flights between latitudes of ±70°.

Further operational aspects, such as the required communication performance requires further elaboration which is assumed to be performed by ICAO.

Studies under consideration show that the UA might receive interference from FS links ([in the bands 14/11 10,7-12,75 GHz and 30/20 17.3-20.2 GHz]) under certain flight scenarios. UA System design and flight operations should take such potential interference into account.

3 LIST OF RELEVANT DOCUMENTS

ITU Documentation Recommendation ITU-R F.758, F.1094, F.1245, F.1336, F.1494, F.1495, F.1565, M.1037, M.1234,

M.1643, M.1644, M.1730, M.2008, P.452, P.618, P.676, P.836, P.839, P.840, P.1623, P.2041, RS.1281, RS.1449, RS.1813, RS1858, RS.1861, RS.2017, S. 465, S.524, S.580, S.672, S.733, S.1064, S.1255, S.1323, S.1328, S.1424, S.1432, S.1806, S.2029, SF.1006, SF.1719, SM.1448

PDN Recommendation ITU-R S.[UAS-FSS]

ITU-Reports Report ITU-R M.2171, M.2230, M.2233 WD PDN Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS] see Annex 18 5B/761

CEPT and/or ECC Documentation (Decisions, Recommendations, Reports):

EU Documentation (Directives, Decisions, Recommendations, other):

4 ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN Contribute and support completion of Report ITU-R M.[UAS-FSS] Support consolidation of hypothetical link and sharing conditions of UA CNPC transmission on

stations operating in terrestrial incumbent services; Support finalising study to what extent frequency coordination would need to be completed to enter

frequency assignments into the MIFR, to make them suitable for the provisioning of UAS CNPC links; Support finalising study on the impact on the coordination of existing/planned FSS application on the

possible introduction of a safety application such as UAS CNPC links in non-segregated airspace; Support finalising the regulatory provisions to be included in the ITU Radio Regulations that would

allow CNPC to be provided through FSS links, ensuring adequate protection for this safety service (e.g. as regulated for the INMARSAT C-band feeder link for AMS(R)S);


Support verification on how the conditions set by ICAO have been considered in the proposed solution.

The following table provide the main items remaining to be addressed:

Proposed answer contained in WDPDN report [UAS-FSS]

Comments on way forward to address the requirement

Protection of incumbent services from UAS CNPC links (ie from FSS earth station emissions on-board Unmanned Aircraft)

Preliminary results are provided but need further considerations

The outcomes of technical studies should be exploited in order to derive regulatory or operational conditions for UAS CNPC links to ensure:protection of other services having an allocation in the bandsthat UAS CNPC links will be operated only under the scenarios covered by the studies

No impact on other FSS applications from UAS CNPC links

No results are available

Concern expressed by certain FSS operators regarding the future protection that UAS CNPC links may seek from existing FSS applications. Similar concerns were at the origin of No.5.527 in part of Ka band.Provisions to prevent interference from UAV emission, on other satellite networks need to be addressed.

Protection of UAS CNPC links from incumbent services (ie protection of FSS earth station receiver on-board Unmanned Aircraft)

No protection criteria is available as FSS would be used under mobility conditions, and would face time-variant interference.Preliminary evaluation of interference levels received by the UA under specific scenarios is provided but need further consideration.

ICAO has not defined performance specifications for UAS CNPC that are required for the derivation of the appropriate protection criteria.Without established protection criteria, ITU will not be in position to guarantee that UAS can operate under FSS with the appropriate performance level. Therefore, it is necessary to define guidelines on how protection could be implemented in practice.

ICAO condition #2 “That all frequency bands which carry aeronautical safety communications need to be clearly identified in the Radio Regulations”

Identification via a new footnote referring to new Resolution [FSS-UA-CNPC] (WRC-15)

This condition is interpreted by some parties, as the need for UAS CNPC links to operate in spectrum allocated to an appropriate aeronautical safety service. It should be avoid direct identification in Article 5 of certain FSS frequency bands for UAS CNPC use, which could unduly give the impression that UAS CNPC should use this allocation instead of other suitable allocations such as AMS(R)S, AMSS or MSS.

ICAO condition #3 “That the assignments and use of the relevant frequency bands have to be consistent with Article 4.10 of the Radio Regulations which recognizes that safety services require special measures to ensure their freedom from harmful interference.”

No explanation on how this condition could be implemented.

Application of article 4.10 requires further considerations.

ICAO condition #4 “Knowledge that any assignment operating in those frequency bands:


Proposed answer contained in WDPDN report [UAS-FSS]

Comments on way forward to address the requirement

is in conformity with technical criteria of the Radio Regulations;has been successfully co-ordinated, including cases where co-ordination was not completed but the ITU examination of probability of harmful interference resulted in a favourable finding, or any caveats placed on that assignment have been addressed and resolved such that the assignment is able to satisfy the requirements to provide BLOS communications for UAS; andhas been recorded in the International Master Frequency Register.”

It is considered in Annex 8 of WDPDN report that administrations will ensure that assignments used for UAS CNPC links have been successfully registered in the MIFR, and have so obtained the necessary protected status (under the provisions of RR No. 11.32, 11.32A, 11.42, or 11.42A)

A successful registration in the MIFR (favourable findings under No. 11.32) does not mean that the assignment is free from harmful interference for a UAS CNPC perspective, since it is possible to obtain such a finding by accepting the interference created by prior satellite networks.References to No. 11.42 or No. 11.42A indicate that, in cases of harmful interference, no protection is given.

ICAO condition #5: “That interference to systems is reported in a transparent manner and addressed in the appropriate time-scale”

No explanation on how this condition could be implemented.

Article 15 of the Radio Regulations contains procedures for the reporting of harmful interference. However, these procedures don’t provide the capability to address the interference case to UAS CNPC links in the appropriate time-scale.

ICAO condition #6: “That realistic worst case condition with inclusion of a safety margin can be applied during compatibility studies.”

Studies consider some worst case conditions without safety margin.

The question of the safety margin need to be addressed.

5 RELEVANT INFORMATION FROM OUTSIDE CEPT

5.1[4.1] EUROPEAN UNION (DATE OF PROPOSAL)

5.2[4.2] REGIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION ORGANISATIONS:

APT (2014)

APT Preliminary Views:

Support ITU-R studies on measures to enable allow use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service not subject to Appendices 30, 30A and 30B for the control and non-payload communications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, in accordance with Resolution 153 (WRC 12).

The compatibility between UAS CNPC links and incumbent systems in related bands should be ensured.

Satellite command and control links should comply with accepted safety requirements, including ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) when developed.


Any regulation relating to UAS operation in FSS bands should prevent an adverse impact on existing and future satellite networks of the FSS and other services in the same band without compromising relevant ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

Clear identification of globally harmonized spectrum for UAS CNPC links is preferred so that the current practice of licensing of manned aircraft following the ICAO standards can be extended to unmanned aircraft.

All studies relating to the supporting Document towards preliminary draft new Report should be duly completed and adopted by ITU-R Study Groups before WRC-15.

All technical, operational, regulatory issues referred to above should be properly addressed.

Performance availability and service availability requirements to ensure safety aspects of the UAS CNPC and to conform to the very high degree of reliability required for such operation are yet to be established.

ATU (January 2014

To support continuation of ongoing studies, and the position to be taken after the outcome of studies.

ASMG (November 2014)

Follow-up results of the meeting last 5B with an emphasis on the protection of existing services and allocated to the fixed-satellite service that are not subject to the Appendices 30 and 30A and 30B via the necessary regulatory, technical and operational regulations for using FSS allocations for safe operating the non-payload communications of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in non-segregated airspaces, this is due to the difficulties of the regulatory issues that face the administrations using such systems in mobile bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service.

Request the Arab administrations to study the technical and operational regulations between FSS and (UAS). ASMG supports No change to RR “Method B”. ASMG in the view that there are considerable technical, operational and regulatory obstacles for the use

of FSS for UAS CNPC links. Moreover, existing allocations for AMS(R)S as well as AMSS and MSS, under certain conditions could satisfy the requirements for UAS CNPC in the frequency bands of these services.

CITEL (November2014)

Preliminary views:

Canada Support use of FSS bands not subject to App 30, 30A, 30B for UAS control and non-payload

communications in non-segregated airspaces only if ITU-R studies show it’s possible to provide safe and efficient integration into the ATC system.

Preliminary Proposals (Method A) United States ADD footnote 5.XXX in most FSS bands from 10-30 GHz to allow for control and non-payload

communication (CNPC) of unmanned aircraft systems ADD Resolution specifying regulatory and operational procedures

RCC (22 December 2013)

The RCC Administrations consider that the use of unplanned FSS bands by UAS CNPC links (space-to-Earth) is possible under the following conditions: such use shall not impose additional constraints on incumbent radio services; compatibility between UAS CNPC links and radio services which already have


allocations in these bands shall be provided; necessary conditions ensuring availability and protection margins for UAS CNPC links shall be ensured.

The RCC Administrations consider that the use of unplanned FSS bands by UAS CNPC links (Earth-to-space) could not be supported, since such use would significantly change conditions of FSS system operation, would not be in compliance with existing conditions of their coordination with terrestrial and satellite radio services and could lead to unacceptable interference to these radio services.

5.3[4.3] INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATION

IATA (date of proposal)

ICAO (November 2013)

Unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) have great potential for innovative civil applications, provided that their operation does not introduce risks to the safety of life.

Taking into account Recommendations 1/12 and 1/13 of the Twelfth Air Navigation Conference (November 2012) “That ICAO … develop and implement a comprehensive aviation frequency spectrum strategy … which includes the following objectives: … clearly state in the strategy the need for aeronautical systems to operate in spectrum allocated to an appropriate aeronautical safety service”; and “That ICAO support studies in the International Telecommunication Union Radio Communication Sector (ITU-R) to determine what ITU regulatory actions are required to enable use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed satellite service for remotely piloted aircraft system command and control (C2) links to ensure consistency with ICAO technical and regulatory requirements for a safety service.”, in order to support the use of FSS systems for UAS CNPC links in non-segregated airspace, the technical and regulatory actions identified by studies under Resolution 153 (WRC-12) must be consistent with the above Recommendations, and satisfy the following conditions:

5. That the technical and regulatory actions should be limited to the case of UAS using satellites, as studied, and not set a precedent that puts other aeronautical safety services at risk.

6. That all frequency bands which carry aeronautical safety communications need to be clearly identified in the Radio Regulations.

7. That the assignments and use of the relevant frequency bands have to be consistent with article 4.10 of the Radio Regulations which recognizes that safety services require special measures to ensure their freedom from harmful interference.

8. Knowledge that any assignment operating in those frequency bands: is in conformity with technical criteria of the Radio Regulations, has been successfully co-ordinated, including cases where co-ordination was not completed but the

ITU examination of probability of harmful interference resulted in a favourable finding, or any caveats placed on that assignment have been addressed and resolved such that the assignment is able to satisfy the requirements to provide BLOS communications for UAS; and

has been recorded in the International Master Frequency Register.

9. That interference to systems is reported in a transparent manner and addressed in the appropriate timescale.

10. That realistic worst case conditions, including an appropriate safety margin, can be applied during compatibility studies.

11. That any operational considerations for UAS will be handled in ICAO and not in the ITU.


Draft Update (CPG PTC(15) INFO 16_ICAO Contribution)

Recognising that unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) have great potential for innovative civil applications, provided that their operation does not introduce risks to the safety of life, and taking into account the Twelfth Air Navigation Conference (November 2012) Recommendation 1/122; and Recommendation 1/13 as amended by the 38th Assembly3, to ensure that in order to support the use of FSS systems for UAS CNPC links in non-segregated airspace, the technical and regulatory actions identified by studies under Resolution 153 (WRC-12) be consistent with the above Recommendations, and satisfy the following conditions:

12. That the technical and regulatory actions be limited to the case of UAS using satellites, as studied, and not set a precedent that puts other aeronautical safety services at risk.

13. That all frequency bands which carry aeronautical safety communications be clearly identified in the ITU Radio Regulations.

14. That the assignments and use of the relevant frequency bands be consistent with article 4.10 of the ITU Radio Regulations which recognizes that safety services require special measures to ensure their freedom from harmful interference.

Additional conditions will need to be addressed in ICAO SARPS for UAS CNPC, and not in ITU.

The provisions for UAS CNPC communications links to meet the necessary technical and operational requirements for any specific airspace in any particular frequency band will be addressed within ICAO.

NATO (December 2014)

NATO supports all regulatory action which permits the usage of FSS bands for CNPC links for the operation of UAS

provided that studies identified in Resolution 153 (WRC-12) confirm FSS can be used for CNPC in non-segregated airspace and that such use does not put constraints on typical use of FSS. NATO notes that as a consequential step aviation standards and recommended practices will still need to be met prior to the operation of UAS using the FSS for CNPC in non-segregated airspace.

SFCG ( June 2014)

SFCG supports the protection of existing space science service allocations while recognizing the practical requirement of UAS CNPC links, in particular for beyond line of sight operations (BLOS), in FSS bands. There is a secondary SRS allocation in the band 13.75-14 GHz (primary status with respect to FSS systems for some GSO SRS networks for which API has been received prior to a certain date). No changes to the FSS allocation in the 13.75-14 GHz band should be made unless acceptable sharing criteria are developed with the SRS. Although it can be assumed that the focus will be more on FSS Ku and Ka bands, the SFCG also seeks to ensure that this item will not lead to authorising UAS in the FSS X-band allocations shared with EESS and METSAT. SFCG also supports the protection of secondary srs allocations in 14-14.3 GHz and 14.4-14.47 GHz bands. Finally, any use of FSS bands for UAS CNPC links in 18.6-18.8 GHz band must meet the provisions of RR Nos. 5.522A and 5.522B.

WMO (December 2014).

2 “That ICAO … develop and implement a comprehensive aviation frequency spectrum strategy … which includes the following objectives: … clearly state in the strategy the need for aeronautical systems to operate in spectrum allocated to an appropriate aeronautical safety service”

3 “That ICAO should support studies in the International Telecommunication Union Radio Communication Sector (ITU-R) to ensure that the safety of life concerns could be sufficiently addressed. The outcome of these studies would have to provide the necessary assurance that there were no undue implications for other aeronautical systems. Provided this was the case, then it could be determined what ITU regulatory actions would be required to enable use of frequency bands allocated to the fixed-satellite service (FSS) for RPAS command and control links to ensure consistency with ICAO technical and regulatory requirements for a safety service.”


WMO is concerned with the frequency band 8 025-8 400 MHz allocated on a primary basis to EESS (space-to-Earth) and to FSS (Earth-to-space) and will object to the use of the 8 GHz FSS allocation for the CNPC links for the operation of UAS. WMO also considers that the protection of existing allocations to the Earth exploration-satellite service and other services employed by meteorological applications shall be ensured if WRC-15 decides on the usage of FSS for the CNPC links for the operation of UASRegional organisations

CRAF (April 2013)

CRAF supports the protection of existing RAS allocations. No changes should be made to the RR unless acceptable sharing criteria are developed with the RAS and SRS.

ESA (September 2014)

Supports SFCG positions

EUMETSAT (September 2014)

Supports WMO positions

Eurocontrol (date of proposal)

Documents

Draft CEPT Brief on AI XX 1.5 - Draft Brief.docx · Web viewTaking into account that a world radiocommunication ... for some GSO SRS networks for which API has been received prior