WASHINGTON: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated a proceeding proposing rules for satellite services on vessels. This includes broadband services.

The proposals implement the results of the 2003 World Radio communications Conference and seek to establish a new framework for the licensing of earth stations on vessels (ESVs) in the US.

A statement issued by the FCC states that this initiative advances its goals for market-driven deployment of broadband technologies, innovation, efficient use of spectrum and regulatory certainty. ESVs offer consumers the benefits of broadband services while on vessels, including cruise ships and government, cargo and other vessels. To date, in the US ESVs have been operating under special temporary authority.

The Commission's proposals seek to provide regulatory certainty to both terrestrial fixed service and fixed satellite service operators in the Ku-band and C-band. The Notice of Proposed Rule making (NPRM) is seeking for comments on rules and procedures to license ESV networks for operation over fixed satellite service satellites in those bands.

These networks can deliver Internet services, data transmissions, video, and voice connections to ships at sea and in port for both passengers and ship operators. The proposals aim to ensure protection from harmful interference to incumbent fixed services, and include measures for prompt resolution of any interference complaints that may arise.