NATE Newsroom:

NATE Applauds FCC Efforts to Strengthen National Security and Expand Commercial Spectrum Use

Posted on: February 27, 2025 Category: Legislative & Regulatory

For Immediate Release:
February 27, 2025

(Washington, D.C.) – NATE: The Communications Infrastructure Contractors Association today released the following statement on the Federal Communications Commission vote to begin the process of reauctioning AWS-3 spectrum licenses to fund the “rip and replace” program.

“This reauction represents a win-win for both national security and innovation,” said President & CEO Todd Schlekeway. The proceeds will directly support the ongoing “rip and replace” program, a crucial effort to remove untrustworthy technology—such as Huawei and ZTE equipment—from U.S. networks. As contractors working on the frontlines of broadband deployment we stand ready to do our part improving the integrity of the nation’s communications infrastructure and safeguarding Americans against potential security threats.”

“By funding the rip and replace initiative, the FCC is taking concrete steps to eliminate high-risk equipment and strengthen our national security while also promoting innovation and competition in the wireless industry,” continued Schlekeway. “We applaud Chairman Brendan Carr’s leadership in taking immediate action on this vital initiative at his first FCC Open Meeting.”

For more information on the FCC Open Meeting, visit www.fcc.gov. For more information on NATE, visit www.natehome.com

Contact: Todd Schlekeway
(605) 882-5865