URCA Publishes ECS 04/2026: The Bahamas National Spectrum Plan 2026–2029
URCA Finalizes Fourth-Generation Spectrum Plan
On 6 May 2026, URCA published the National Spectrum Plan 2026–2029 (ECS 04/2026), along with the Statement of Results closing the public consultation. This URCA spectrum plan is the fourth edition in the series, following the 2010, 2014 and 2020–2023 plans. It is the first to fully incorporate the outcomes of WRC-23 (Dubai, 2023) into the National Frequency Allocation Table (NFAT).
Legal Basis
The Communications Act 2009 requires URCA to revise the National Spectrum Plan every three years, in consultation with the Minister and subject to Ministerial approval. ECS 04/2026 has received that approval and stays in force until replaced. The plan aligns with the Electronic Communications Sector Policy 2024–2027 domestically, and the 2024 ITU Radio Regulations internationally.
Key Frequency Changes
| Category | Frequency Bands | Purpose / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New IMT Spectrum (4G/5G/6G) | 3300–3400 MHz 3600–3800 MHz 6425–7125 MHz | Supports mid-band 5G and future 6G. Upper 6 GHz range subject to a further national decision. 3400–3700 MHz classified as Premium and Standard spectrum. |
| HAPS/HIBS | 1885–1980 MHz (uplink) 2010–2025 MHz (downlink) 2500–2690 MHz | Extends mobile broadband coverage to the Family Islands via High-Altitude Platform Stations. |
| Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs) | 17.7–18.6 GHz (downlink) 27.5–29.5 GHz (uplink) | Supports broadband on aircraft, vessels and land vehicles. |
| GMDSS and Space Services | 36–37 GHz 42.5–43.5 GHz (plus GMDSS updates) | Modernises maritime distress and safety communications; provisional recognition of BeiDou Satellite Messaging Service; new allocations for Earth observation satellites. |
What Happens Next
Detailed band plans, covering centre frequency, bandwidth and spectral masks, will follow separately under the ECS 04/2018 procedure. They are not yet final. Digital TV must still use the ATSC standard, and the 698–806 MHz range stays reserved for mobile and public safety use rather than broadcasting. URCA also plans a new framework for commercial use of licence-exempt spectrum, which may bring new fees or registration rules.
Consultation responses came from Cable Bahamas, Be Aliv, BTC, and Kuiper Systems, among others. URCA says it reviewed all submissions before finalising the plan, and will review implementation progress quarterly through 2029.
Key Takeaways
- Use the revised NFAT as the new reference baseline. Check any product line against reclassified bands, especially 698–806 MHz.
- Mid-band 5G equipment (3.3–3.8 GHz) now has a clear allocation path, but final channel plans are still pending.
- The upper 6 GHz band (6425–7125 MHz) is identified but not yet confirmed for national use. Monitor URCA’s next technical consultation before committing designs.
- New HAPS/HIBS and ESIM bands open opportunities for clients pursuing non-terrestrial or satellite terminal certification in the region.
- Watch the upcoming licence-exempt commercial use framework closely. It could add new fees or registration steps for IoT products currently operating licence-exempt.
- Type approval stays with URCA. Keep certification files aligned with the current NFAT, and update them once new band plans are published.
Source
URCA, “URCA Publishes Statement of Results & Final Determination on National Spectrum Plan (2026 – 2029),” 6 May 2026: https://urcabahamas.bs/consultations/urca-publishes-statement-of-results-final-determination-on-national-spectrum-plan-2026-2029/
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