Spectrum for National Security

The efficient use of radio spectrum is a national security imperative for several reasons:

Most advanced wireless advanced applications prefer, it not require, 5G for security.

The 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) security protocols for 5G are a comprehensive set of standards designed to ensure robust security. The security advantages of 5G include an authentication framework; hierarchy and management; encryption; identity protection; subscriber privacy; and network domain security. Related benefits of 5G high speed and low latency which enables real-time coordination between units, drones, and command centers—crucial for split-second decisions in combat or disaster response; massive simultaneous device connectivity, support up to a million devices per square mile (Imagine a battlefield with thousands of sensors, wearables, vehicles, and IoT devices all feeding data simultaneously—troop movements, enemy positions, or equipment status—without clogging the network.); enhanced situational awareness to deploy advanced systems like augmented reality (AR) for soldiers, high-res surveillance from drones, or AI-driven analytics on the edge; the use ofunmanned and autonomous systems; secure, resilient slicing for isolated, encrypted channels for sensitive operations, reducing the risk of intrusion.

Military Advantage

Modern warfare leans heavily on spectrum-dependent technologies—drones, radar, satellite comms, and electronic warfare. Armed forces must also evolve their use technology. Inefficient and aberrant use leave gaps that adversaries exploit, either by jamming signals or dominating unused bandwidth. Efficient allocation ensures that the military maintains superiority, especially in contested environments.

Radio spectrum underpins essential communication systems.If the spectrum is congested or mismanaged, these systems could face interference or delays, jeopardizing rapid response in crises like natural disasters or terrorist attacks. A secure nation relies on uninterrupted, reliable communication.

Relying on outdated or inefficient spectrum policies could force dependence on foreign tech or standards, eroding autonomy. Proactive, efficient use keeps a nation in control of its communication destiny, reducing vulnerabilities to supply chain risks or international coercion.

Economic Resilience and Competition

Radio spectrum fuels industries like telecommunications, logistics, and software innovation. A nation’s economic strength is a pillar of its security—disruptions from poor spectrum management could weaken critical sectors, making the country more vulnerable to external pressure or sabotage.

Nations also compete globally with the devices, services, and applications they develop with radio spectrum. A nation can grow its economy and jobs through spectrum. For countries like the USA, this is not just an economic driver, but a lever of geopolitical competition and security. A nation with sub-optimal spectrum policy can be subject to foreign influence when adversaries use opponent’s inefficiencies to their advantage, whether through cyberattacks on poorly protected frequencies, outpacing in next-gen tech deployment, or global standard setting for wireless technologies. Efficient use keeps us ahead, reducing the risk of foreign entities gaining strategic leverage over our communication networks.

In short, the radio spectrum isn’t just a technical resource—it’s a strategic asset.

Spectrum Supremacy: Reclaiming America’s Edge in a Contested Domain War on the Rocks (April 21, 2024)

The Win-Win of Military and Spectrum Modernization: Strengthening U.S. National Security and Driving Economic Growth The SCIF (March 31, 2025)

Open the Airwaves Commonplace (March 5, 2025)

As China Looks to 6G, the U.S. has No Spectrum Auctions, No Pipeline, and No Plan The SCIF (Jul. 21, 2023)

The Pentagon’s $45 Billion 140 MHz Spectrum Blindspot Forbes (Dec. 19, 2022)

GPS Interference Fears Are Today’s Y2K, Says Former UK Spectrum Director Forbes (May. 8, 2020)

National Security Experts Support FCC 5G Spectrum Plan Voted Today Forbes (Feb. 28, 2020)