Pentagon plan to relocate CBRS sparks fierce industry backlash

A controversial DOD proposal to relocate Citizens Broadband Radio Services (CBRS) spectrum from 3.55–3.65 GHz to the lower 3 GHz band is drawing sharp criticism from across the broadband landscape. The plan, which echoes a previous proposal by AT&T, would open up spectrum for auction to traditional mobile carriers—potentially displacing hundreds of existing users.

According to New Street Research, the DOD plan could pave the way for high-dollar auctions but poses a threat to small internet providers and enterprise users currently dependent on CBRS. Critics compare the move to government-sanctioned eminent domain for commercial interests. “It’s like condemning a Costco to give the land to Walmart,” said NSR’s Blair Levin.

CBRS has supported a range of use cases, from rural broadband via wireless internet service providers (WISPs) to private networks at places like John Deere factories and DFW Airport. “[It’s] proven to work and adoption has been huge,” said WISPA CEO David Zumwalt, noting over 400,000 deployed devices.

AT&T, which stands to benefit from spectrum reallocation, declined to comment. The DoD’s plan is not final, and legislative hurdles remain—particularly in reauthorizing FCC auction authority. Still, analysts warn that redefining license terms could shake long-term confidence in federal spectrum policy.