Chairman Deb Fischer of the Senate Commerce Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee said on Mar. 17 that the United States must coordinate a strong leadership position ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, which will be held in Shanghai, China.
The hearing addressed how decisions made at the conference could affect U.S. economic competitiveness, national security, scientific research, and leadership in wireless and satellite technologies. The event is considered one of the most significant global forums for spectrum policy.
In her prepared remarks, Fischer said, “Distinguished Members of the Committee, and our witnesses – thank you for being here today to discuss the United States’ preparation for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference.” She explained that decisions at these conferences shape international rules on radiofrequency spectrum allocation and sharing worldwide. “Those decisions have far-reaching implications for U.S. economic competitiveness, national security, scientific research, and the continued leadership of the United States in wireless and satellite technologies,” Fischer said.
Fischer also highlighted concerns about China’s role as host: “Next year’s conference will be hosted in Shanghai, and the Chinese Communist Party will certainly be prepared to advance positions meant to undermine the United States’ leadership.” She emphasized that a tightly coordinated interagency process led by NTIA is needed to ensure all federal agencies contribute technical input and operational perspectives. The Department of Defense was noted as playing a significant role due to its reliance on reliable spectrum access for critical capabilities such as satellite communications and missile warning systems.
Other agencies like NASA, NOAA, and FAA were mentioned as essential contributors because they depend on spectrum for scientific satellites, weather monitoring systems, aviation safety, and navigation systems. Fischer said these missions must be carefully considered when evaluating regulatory changes at an international level.
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee reviews legislation related to commerce, science and transportation during congressional sessions according to its official website. The committee is directed by a chairman with senators from both parties according to its official website, serves as a standing committee focused on commerce-related issues according to its official website, works within the legislative branch addressing interstate commerce policies according to its official website, seeks to review legislation involving commerce matters according to its official website, and houses its main office in Washington D.C.'s Russell Senate Office Building according to its official website.
Fischer concluded her statement by saying that preparation for WRC-27 is not a short-term exercise: “Today’s committee hearing examines how best to support the interagency process in the coming months. We all share the goal of advancing U.S. leadership in spectrum and in space.”
