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Path to Smart 6G Spectrum Access

By Carolyn Kahn , Christopher Hegarty, Ph.D. , Darcy Swain Walsh

The impact of 6G is expected to be even more transformative than 5G. From strengthening the spectrum regulatory structure to establishing shared goals and actions, our nation needs to unite industry, government, and academia in a concerted 6G approach.

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The impact of sixth-generation (6G) communications is expected to be even more transformative than fifth-generation (5G) wireless technology. Although not yet fully defined, this advanced technology and its applications will likely follow the path of their predecessors, spurring economic growth and productivity, unlocking massive gross domestic product (GDP) growth and new industry verticals. With sound policy, 6G can also influence and enhance national and economic security, social equity, quality of life, and democratic values contributing to global peace and prosperity.

MITRE’s vision for 6G is expansive: on-demand connectivity of every device, at any location and any time. To achieve this technological breakthrough, we must identify additional spectrum. This MITRE white paper identifies technical and spectrum requirements of 6G and proposes recommendations that provide a path toward ensuring sufficient spectrum for 6G while preserving other radio services vital to the U.S. economy and national security. Given the importance of these objectives, this paper calls for the earliest possible involvement of both technical and policy-oriented executives from government, while balancing the needs of evolving wireless technologies and standards.

Path to Smart 6G Spectrum Access

National-level Approach and Leadership

From strengthening the spectrum regulatory structure to establishing shared goals and actions, our nation needs to unite industry, government, and academia in a concerted 6G approach.

Research and Development

America needs a whole-of-nation 6G R&D strategy that includes a community of interest, common research challenges, accountability for results, and the resources needed to sustain global 6G leadership.

Spectrum Reimagined

The time has come to question existing assumptions about spectrum allocation and use. Revolutionizing spectrum access will require breaking down barriers to identify what is in the art of the possible for spectrum use. We also need more efficient ways to use the spectrum, whether it’s through AI, advanced spectrum sharing technologies, or even the use of quantum science.

From strengthening the spectrum regulatory structure to establishing shared goals and actions, our nation needs to unite industry, government, and academia in a concerted 6G approach.

America needs a whole-of-nation 6G R&D strategy that includes a community of interest, common research challenges, accountability for results, and the resources needed to sustain global 6G leadership.

The time has come to question existing assumptions about spectrum allocation and use. Revolutionizing spectrum access will require breaking down barriers to identify what is in the art of the possible for spectrum use. We also need more efficient ways to use the spectrum, whether it’s through AI, advanced spectrum sharing technologies, or even the use of quantum science.