Frequency interference. Interference is the inability to effectively distribute or receive a
particular frequency because of similar frequency competition. As the use of the
frequency spectrum increases (such as the rapid increase in cellular phone technology
over the last decade) and as development expands near military installations and
operational areas, the potential for frequency spectrum interference increases.
Frequency spectrum. The frequency spectrum is the entire range of electromagnetic
frequencies used for communications and other transmissions, which includes
communication channels used for radio, cellular phones, and television.
Unmanned aerial systems. An unmanned aerial system (UAS), often referred to as a
drone, is a powered, aerial vehicle that does not carry a human operator, uses
aerodynamic forces to provide vehicle lift, can fly autonomously or be piloted remotely,
can be expendable or recoverable, and can carry a lethal or nonlethal payload.
Technical Background
The DoD use of frequency spectrum allows for safe operations and the effective delivery
of weapons on target without interference. The DoD’s frequency spectrum needs for
testing, evaluation, and training is constantly increasing, while the spectrum available for
DoD use is decreasing. The National Telecommunications Industry Association (NTIA)
Office of Spectrum Management (OSM) explains that:
…almost every agency of the Federal Government uses the spectrum in
performing mandated missions. The DoD uses the spectrum
extensively for tactical uses and non‐tactical uses. In the United States
tactical uses are generally limited to a number of specific testing sites
and training facilities, but DoD's non‐tactical applications are
extensive and include aircraft command and control, mobile
communication in and around military bases, and air fields and long‐
distance communications using satellites.
Frequency interference is related to other transmission sources. Interference can result
from several factors, including:
Using a new transmission frequency that is near an existing frequency;
Reducing the distance between two antennas transmitting on a similar
frequency;
Increasing the power of a similar transmission signal;
Background Report
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