On March 21, APCO filed comments with the National Science Foundation regarding the development of a National Spectrum R&D Plan (R&D Plan). Building off of the National Spectrum Strategy, the R&D Plan will serve as a guidance document for federal investments in spectrum-related research. APCO highlighted public safety’s unique need for reliable, interference-free access to spectrum and recommended that the R&D Plan prioritize research on interference mitigation. APCO also suggested the R&D Plan include research and development on spectrum sharing technologies and prioritize real-world testing when evaluating spectrum sharing mechanisms to ensure they are effective at protecting public safety communications.
