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HANDBOOK ON
amateur and
amateur-satellite
services
International Telecommunication Union ISBN 978-92-61-14661-0 SAP id

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Radiocommunication Bureau
 International Telecommunication Union

Handbook on
Amateur and
amateur-satellite
services

Edition of 2014

R a d io co mm u n ica t ion B ur ea u
Amateur and amateur-satellite services iii

Foreword

This Handbook provides general information about the amateur and amateur-satellite services.
It also includes a compendium of existing ITU texts of relevance to the amateur and amateur-
satellite services.
The amateur service is the oldest radio service and pre-dates regulation of radiocommunication.
In 1912, amateurs could use any frequency above 1.5 MHz, as these frequencies were regarded
“of no value for marine, governmental and commercial communications” or “undesirable and
scarcely useful”. By 1924, amateurs made way for other services in bands above 1.5 MHz.
Today, the amateur service operates in relatively small allocations throughout the spectrum.
The 1963 World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC) created Footnote 284A, which states:
“In the band 144-146 MHz, artificial satellites may be used by the amateur service”. The amateur-
satellite service was created and given frequency allocations at the 1971 Space WARC. Since then,
scores of amateur satellites have been designed, constructed and operated by amateurs. In addition,
amateur radio has been used aboard manned space stations including MIR and the International
Space Station. Most astronauts and cosmonauts are licensed amateur radio operators.
Self-training is an important purpose of the amateur services, as articulated in the definition of the
amateur service in No. 1.56 of the Radio Regulations (RR).
Radio amateurs have made significant technical contributions to the fields of radio propagation,
high frequency single sideband radiotelephone, HF data communications, packet radio protocols
and communication satellite design.
RR No. 25.9A encourages administrations to allow amateur stations to support disaster relief.
Amateur radio continues to provide basic radiocommunications especially in the early moments of
a disaster causing the loss or overloading of normal telecommunications networks.
This Handbook is intended to present, in one publication, information about the amateur services
for administrations and amateur radio organizations.
This work would not have been possible without the efforts of many volunteers and delegates over
a number of years and their efforts should be recognised.

Dale HUGUES
Chairman,
Radiocommunication Working Party 5A
(Working Group 1 – Amateur services)
Amateur and amateur-satellite services v

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Foreword .................................................................................................................................. iii

CHAPTER 1 - THE AMATEUR SERVICES.................................................................... 1

1.1 Nature of the amateur services ........................................................................... 1
1.2 Training............................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Mutual recognition of amateur radio licences .................................................... 2
1.3.1 CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-01 ..................................................... 2
1.3.2 OAS International Amateur Radio Permit (IARP) .............................. 2
1.4 Standardized operator qualifications .................................................................. 2
1.4.1 Recommendation ITU-R M.1544 ........................................................ 2
1.4.2 CEPT harmonized amateur radio examination certificate (HAREC) .. 2
1.5 Classification of amateur radio licences ............................................................. 3
1.5.1 Individual amateur licence ................................................................... 3
1.5.2 Club stations ......................................................................................... 3
1.5.3 Special event stations ........................................................................... 3
1.6 Technical characteristics of stations ................................................................... 3

CHAPTER 2 - AMATEUR SERVICE................................................................................ 5

2.1 Applications of bands allocated to the amateur service...................................... 5
2.2 Amateur radio band plans ................................................................................... 9
2.3 Amateur service operations and operator training .............................................. 9
2.3.1 Typical operations ................................................................................ 9
2.3.2 Operating activities .............................................................................. 9
2.3.3 Radiosport ............................................................................................ 9
2.4 Role of the amateur service in emergency telecommunications......................... 10
2.4.1 Amateur networks available for emergency telecommunications ....... 11
2.5 Amateur systems ................................................................................................. 12
2.5.1 Telegraphy systems .............................................................................. 12
2.5.2 Data communications systems ............................................................. 12
vi Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Page
2.5.3 Internetworking .................................................................................... 13
2.5.4 Telephony systems ............................................................................... 13
2.5.5 Image communications systems........................................................... 13
2.5.6 Multimedia systems ............................................................................. 13
2.6 Experimentation in the amateur service ............................................................. 14
2.6.1 System development ............................................................................ 14
2.6.2 Antenna design ..................................................................................... 14
2.6.3 Personal computers .............................................................................. 14
2.6.4 Propagation research ............................................................................ 14
2.6.5 Digital signal processing ...................................................................... 14

CHAPTER 3 - AMATEUR-SATELLITE SERVICE ......................................................... 15

3.1 Applications of bands allocated to the amateur-satellite service ........................ 15
3.2 Background ......................................................................................................... 16
3.3 Operational amateur satellites............................................................................. 16
3.4 Amateur earth stations ........................................................................................ 18

CHAPTER 4 - EXTRACTS OF RADIO REGULATIONS (EDITION OF 2012)........ 19

ARTICLE 1 - Terms and definitions ............................................................................. 19
ARTICLE 5 - Frequency Allocations............................................................................ 20
ARTICLE 19 - Identification of stations ....................................................................... 48
ARTICLE 25 - Amateur services .................................................................................. 50
APPENDIX 42 (Rev.WRC-12) - Table of allocation of international call sign series .. 52
RESOLUTION 641 (Rev.HFBC-87) - Use of the frequency band 7 000-7 100 kHz.. 59
RESOLUTION 642 - Relating to the bringing into use of earth stations in the
amateur-satellite service ..................................................................................... 60
RESOLUTION 644 (Rev.WRC-12) - Radiocommunication resources for early
warning, disaster mitigation and relief operations ............................................. 61

CHAPTER 5 - ITU-R QUESTIONS RELEVANT TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES 63

QUESTION ITU-R 48-6/5 - Techniques and frequency usage in the amateur service
and amateur-satellite service............................................................................... 63
QUESTION ITU-R 209-4/5 - Use of the mobile, amateur and amateur satellite
services in support of disaster radiocommunications ......................................... 63
Amateur and amateur-satellite services vii

Page

CHAPTER 6 - ITU-R RECOMMENDATIONS RELEVANT TO THE AMATEUR

SERVICES ..................................................................................................................... 65
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1041-2 - Future amateur radio systems ................. 65
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1042-3 - Disaster communications in the amateur
and amateur-satellite services ............................................................................. 65
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1043-2 - Use of the amateur and amateur-
satellite services in developing countries............................................................ 66
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1044-2 - Frequency sharing criteria in the
amateur and amateur-satellite services ............................................................... 66
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1172 - Miscellaneous abbreviations and signals
to be used for radiocommunications in the maritime mobile service ................. 66
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1544 - Minimum qualifications of radio amateurs 67
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1677-1 - International Morse code ........................ 67
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1732-1 - Characteristics of systems operating in
the amateur and amateur-satellite services for use in sharing studies ................ 67
RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.2034 - Telegraphic alphabet for data
communication by phase shift keying at 31 Bd in the amateur and amateur-
satellite services .................................................................................................. 68

CHAPTER 7 - ITU-R REPORTS RELEVANT TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES ..... 69

REPORT ITU-R M.2085-1 - Role of the amateur and amateur-satellite services in
support of disaster mitigation and relief ............................................................ 69
REPORT ITU-R M.2117-1 - Software-defined radio in the land mobile, amateur and
amateur-satellite services .................................................................................... 69
REPORT ITU-R M.2200 - Characteristics of amateur radio stations in the range
415-526.5 kHz for sharing studies ...................................................................... 69
REPORT ITU-R M.2203 - Compatibility of amateur service stations with existing
services in the range 415-526.5 kHz................................................................... 70
REPORT ITU-R M.2226 - Description of amateur and experimental operation
between 415 and 526.5 kHz in some countries .................................................. 70

CHAPTER 8 - ITU-D RECOMMENDATIONS AND HANDBOOKS RELEVANT

TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES .............................................................................. 71
Chapter 1 1

CHAPTER 1

THE AMATEUR SERVICES

1.1 Nature of the amateur services

The amateur service is the oldest radio service and pre-dates regulation of radiocommunication. The
original reason for regulation of the radio spectrum was to improve maritime safety and to ensure
that coast stations would communicate with all ships, not just those using their company’s
equipment. In 1912, amateurs could use any frequency above 1.5 MHz, as they were regarded as
“of no commercial value for maritime, governmental and commercial communications”. However,
the value of the higher frequency bands was recognized in the 1920s. Today, the amateur service
retains relatively narrow bands throughout the entire radio spectrum. These bands provide the whole
range of radio wave propagation mechanisms and, through experimentation, amateurs have
contributed to the understanding of propagation.

Radio amateurs have made significant technical contributions to the field of radio propagation,
HF single-sideband radio, HF data communication systems, digital radio protocols and
communications-satellite design.

Amateur radio continues to play an important role in disaster communications. It has a unique
ability to provide radiocommunication independent of the telephone network or other radio
services, particularly in the first few days before relief agencies are at the scene and have set up
emergency telecommunication services.

The amateur services include self-training as an important purpose. This includes training of young
people in radiocommunications. Radio amateurs have the opportunity of planning, designing,
building, operating and maintaining a complete radio station, which contributes to the telecommu-
nication human resources development of a country.

The International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) is the Federation of the national amateur radio
associations existing in most countries. It represents the amateur and amateur-satellite services in
the ITU and regional telecommunications organizations, and is a Sector Member of the ITU Radio-
communication and Telecommunication Development Sectors.

1.2 Training

Some national amateur radio societies have one or more training courses and publications designed
for individuals preparing to take amateur licence examinations. Some have continuing education
courses in a variety of subjects including courses on preparedness for emergencies.
2 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

1.3 Mutual recognition of amateur radio licences

Amateurs sometimes visit other countries and want to operate their amateur stations. The types of
reciprocal operating authority are:

– CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-01

– International Amateur Radio Permit

– reciprocal agreement, and in some cases

– visitor licences issued by an administration based on showing of a valid licence from the
operator’s country of origin.

1.3.1 CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-01

The Conference of European Postal and Telecommunications Administrations (CEPT) Electronic

Communications Committee (ECC) adopted Recommendation T/R 61-01 (revised Nicosia 2003)
CEPT Radio Amateur Licence to make it possible for radio amateurs from CEPT countries to
operate during short visits in other CEPT countries without obtaining an individual temporary
licence from the visited CEPT country. The Recommendation permits non-CEPT countries to
participate in this licensing system.

1.3.2 OAS International Amateur Radio Permit (IARP)

The IARP was created by the Organization of American States (OAS) at the recommendation of the
Inter-American Telecommunication Commission (CITEL). It permits amateurs from signatory
countries of the Americas to operate in other signatory countries of the Americas to operate without
seeking a special licence or permit other than the IARP.

1.4 Standardized operator qualifications

1.4.1 Recommendation ITU-R M.1544

This Recommendation establishes minimum qualifications of radio amateurs. HAREC is a more

detailed syllabus applicable to CEPT countries and others which have adopted it for convenience.
Other countries have developed their own syllabi and pools of examination questions. National
societies are aware of the systems used in other countries and there is a trend toward uniformity of
approaches.

1.4.2 CEPT harmonized amateur radio examination certificate (HAREC)

CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-02 makes it possible for CEPT administrations to issue a
Harmonized Amateur Radio Examination Certificate (HAREC). The HAREC document shows
proof of successfully passing an amateur radio examination which complies with the Examination
Syllabus for the HAREC. It facilitates the issuance of an individual licence to radio amateurs who
stay in a country for a longer term than that mentioned in CEPT Recommendation T/R 61-01. It
also facilitates the issuing of an individual licence to a radio amateur returning to his native country
showing the HAREC certificate issued by a foreign administration. The Recommendation has a
provision for non-CEPT countries to participate in this system.
Chapter 1 3

1.5 Classification of amateur radio licences

Although there is variation by country, there may be two kinds of licences:

– operator licence and

– station licence.

The operator licence is a permit for a person to operate an amateur station. The operator licence
may be valid for a specified number of years but there are some administrations issuing lifetime
operator licences. Station licences are typically issued for a certain number of years to enable the
administration to maintain a current database of amateur stations.

1.5.1 Individual amateur licence

Most amateur radio licences are issued to individual operators. The privileges of a licence may not
be transferred to other persons but a licensee may permit another person to operate the amateur
station provided that a licensee is in direct control of the transmissions.

1.5.2 Club stations

Administrations may issue club station licences to an amateur radio organization. Normally, the
licence is issued to a “trustee” who is normally a licensed operator and is responsible for the proper
operation of the club station. Club stations are particularly valuable for educational purposes.

The premier example of a radio club is the International Amateur Radio Club (IARC) using the call
sign 4U1ITU operating in the ITU Varembé office building. It is available for use by ITU delegates
who are licensed radio amateurs upon issuance of a visitor’s licence.

1.5.3 Special event stations

Some administrations issue temporary licences for special events, such as to commemorate a
national anniversary. These licences may be issued to an individual or club.

1.6 Technical characteristics of stations

RR No. 25.7 provides that “The maximum power of amateur stations shall be fixed by the
administrations concerned”. While the manner of regulating transmitter power varies among
administrations, it is typically specified as peak envelope power output. The maximum power
typically is set at between 26 and 33 dBW for the most qualified operators, with lower limits for
certain frequency bands and classes of operator licence.
Chapter 2 5

CHAPTER 2

AMATEUR SERVICE

2.1 Applications of bands allocated to the amateur service

The following table describes typical applications of frequency bands available to the amateur
service. Refer to Article 5 of the Radio Regulations (RR) for the specific allocation status of each
band. Refer to national regulations for specific allocations, as they may vary by country.

Frequency band
Wavelength (kHz) Application
(R = Region)
2 200 m 135.7-137.8 Propagation in this band permits short-range communications during
(secondary) daytime hours and longer range communications via ionospheric
Geographical constraints are refraction at night, when D layer absorption weakens. Power output is
given is RR Nos. 5.67A and limited to 1 W e.i.r.p. which is sufficient for transcontinental and
5.67B transoceanic transmissions at night.
630 m 472-479 Propagation in this band permits short-range communications during
(secondary) daytime hours and longer range communications via ionospheric
Geographical and technical refraction at night, when D layer absorption weakens. Power output is
constraints are given in RR limited either 1 W or 5 W e.i.r.p., depending stations location (see RR
Nos. 5.82, 5.80A and 5.80B Nos. 5.80A and 5.80B)
160 m 1 810-1 850 R1 Its propagation characteristics allow short-range communications during
(co-primary use with other daytime hours, and medium and long-range communications during
services) night-time hours. This band is particularly useful during sunspot minima,
RR Nos. 5.98, 5.99, 5.100, when the maximum usable frequency (MUF) is below 3 500 kHz.
5.101 and 5.103)
1 800-1 850 R2
1 800-2 000 R2, R3
(co-primary use with other
services)
RR No. 5.102
6 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Frequency band
Wavelength (kHz) Application
(R = Region)
80 m 3 500-3 800 R1 This band is used for contacts over distances of up to 500 km during the
(co-primary use with other day, and for distances of 2 000 km and more at night. It is heavily used
services) during communications emergencies.
RR No. 5.92
80 m 3 500-3 750 R2
(primary)
RR No. 5.119)
3 500-3 900 R3
(co-primary use with other
services)
3 750-4 000 R2
(co-primary use with other
services)
RR Nos. 5.122 and 5.125
40 m 7 000-7 200 R1, R3 The 7 MHz band is heavily used 24 hours each day. During daylight
(primary) hours, the band carries the bulk of amateur sky wave communication
RR Nos .5.40, 5.141, over distances of less than 1 300 km.
5.141A, 5.142
7 000-7 300 R2
(primary)
RR No. 5.142

30 m 10 100-10 150 This band is in use 24 hours each day, as a bridge between the 7 MHz
(secondary) and 14 MHz bands.
20 m 14 000-14 250 This is the most popular band for international communications.
(primary)
14 250-14 350
(Conditions of co-primary
use with other services in a
number of countries are
given in RR No. 5.152)
17 m 18 068-18 168 The band is used as an alternative to 14 MHz which is often congested
(conditions of co-primary with traffic.
use with other services in
a number of countries are
given in RR No. 5.154)
15 m 21 000-21 450 These bands are used particularly during the daytime and when sunspot
(primary) activity is high.
12 m 24 890-24 990
(primary)
10 m 28 000-29 700
(primary)
Chapter 2 7

Frequency band
Wavelength (kHz) Application
(R = Region)
6m 50-54 R1 This band is used for local communication at all times including via
(Only allocated in repeaters. Use of this band may also include telecommand of objects
11 countries of the African such as models by radio amateurs. The band may also be used on
Region where the allocation is occasion for communication for distances up to 2 000 km by sky
primary). RR No. 5.169 wave, tropospheric scatter, earth-moon-earth (EME), sporadic
50-54 R2, R3 reflection from the E layer of the ionosphere (Es) and scattering by
(geographical constraints are the ionized trails of meteors (MS).
given in RR Nos. 5.162A,
5.166, 5.167, 5.167A, 5.158,
5.170)
2m 144-146 R1 This band is heavily used throughout the world for short-range
(primary) communications, including the use of repeaters. This band is actively
144-148 R2, R3 used for Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) communications using analog and
(conditions of co-primary use digital modulation techniques, for different types of radio waves
with other services in propagation – tropospheric scattering and superrefaction (TROPO),
a number of countries are scattering by irregularities in the lower ionosphere (FAI), scattering
given in RR No. 5.217) by the ionized trails of meteors (MS) as well as ionospheric scattering
in the circumpolar regions during polar storms (AURORA) making it
possible to contact, using analog and digital modulation techniques,
over distances of up to 2 000-3 000 km.
This band is actively used for local communications in times of
disasters. It is also used for contacts with the use of repeaters on
board amateur satellites.
1.25 m 220-225 R2 Where allocated, this band serves as an alternative to the 144 MHz
band for short-range communications.
70 cm 430-440 This band is used for short-range communications including repeaters
(R1 co-primary use with other and amateur analogue and digital television. It is also used for Earth-
services) Moon-Earth (EME) communications using analogue and digital
RR Nos. 5.138, 5.271, 5.272, modulation techniques. Tropospheric scattering and superrefraction
5.273, 5.274, 5.275, 5.276, (TROPO) makes it possible to contact over distances of up to
5.277, 5.279A, 5.280, 5.281, 1 000 km. It is also used for contacts with the repeaters on board
5.282, 5.283 amateur satellites.
420-430 and 440-450 in
several countries.
R2, R3 on a secondary basis
RR No. 5.270
430-440 R2, R3
(secondary)

33 cm 902-928 R2 This band is allocated to the amateur service only in Region 2.

(secondary)
RR No. 5.150
8 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Frequency band
Wavelength (kHz) Application
(R = Region)
23 cm 1 240-1 300 This band is used for communications using analog and digital
(secondary) modulation techniques, as well as for digital television and repeater
networks. Tropospheric scattering and superrefraction (TROPO)
makes is possible to contact over distances of over 1 000 km.
This band is the most popular for Earth-Moon-Earth (EME)
communications using analog and digital modulation techniques.
Also this band is used for contacts on board amateur satellites.
13 cm 2 300-2 450 This band is used for narrowband, data and television
(secondary) communications and for experimentation. It is also used for Earth-
Moon-Earth (EME) communications and for contacts with the use of
repeaters on board amateur satellites (mainly space-Earth
9 cm 3 300-3 500 R2, This band is used for narrowband communications, data links and for
(R3 secondary) Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) communications using analog and digital
modulation techniques.
5 cm 5 650-5 850 R1, R3 This band is used for narrowband communications, data links and for
5 650-5 925 R2 Earth-Moon-Earth communications using analog and digital
(secondary in all three modulations techniques.
regions)
Frequency band
(GHz)
3 cm 10-10.5 (secondary) This band is used for narrowband communications, short range
wideband communications, television (including repeaters), and for
Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) communications using analog and digital
modulation techniques.
It is the most popular band above 1.3GHz.
Certain propagation conditions such as TROPO or RAINSCATTER
can result in communications ranges in excess of 1 000 km.
1.2 cm 24-24.05 (primary) These bands (at 24 GHz, 47 GHz and 76 GHz) are largely used for
24.05-24.25 (secondary) narrowband communications and for experimentation, and also for
Earth-Moon-Earth (EME) communications.
RR 5.150
6 mm 47-47.2 (primary)
4 mm 76-77.5 ( secondary)
77.5-78 (primary)
78-81.5 (secondary)
2.5 mm 122.25-123 (secondary)
2 mm 134-136 (primary)
1 mm 136-141 (secondary) Bands at 122 GHz and above are largely used for narrowband
241-248 (secondary) communications and experimentation

248-250 (primary)

NOTE – Some administrations permit amateur experimentation at frequencies above 275 GHz,
consistent with RR No. 5.565 (WRC-12).
Chapter 2 9

2.2 Amateur radio band plans

The allocations of frequency bands for the amateur service are made by the ITU and are reflected in
national regulations. The specific applications for parts of these allocations are recommended by
“band plans”. Each IARU regional organization develops a regional band plan on the usage of
frequencies. They are general guidance which may not take into account the variations of
regulations of each country within the region. For this reason, some national societies develop
national band plans complying with national regulations and being compatible to the extent possible
with the regional band plan.

2.3 Amateur service operations and operator training

2.3.1 Typical operations
Typical operations within the amateur service consist of contacts between two, or among more,
amateur stations as stated in RR No. 1.56, that is “for the purpose of self-training, inter-
communication and technical investigations carried out by amateurs”.
Normal operations include dialogue between operators on a variety of subjects including technical
discussions. There is also an exchange of formal and informal messages now normally transmitted
via data communications modes. A number of contests are carried out to demonstrate the level of
proficiency, to challenge and raise the level of operator skills, demonstrate amateur station
capabilities and commemorate special events.
2.3.2 Operating activities
Radio amateurs use their stations in a wide variety of operating modes. Many amateurs spend much
of their time listening to other amateur stations making a two-way contact (known as a “QSO” –
a Q code meaning “I can communicate with…”). They may join the contact and contribute to the
ongoing conversation. The contacts may be lengthy lasting as much as an hour but are often very
brief, simply the exchange of call signs, signal reports, names and locations. Brief contacts are
common for amateur stations operating from locations (countries and call sign prefixes) which are
rarely on the air.
Another operating mode is to call CQ (meaning “General call to all stations”) to invite any other
station to make contact. If more than two stations are involved in a contact, it may be called a
“roundtable”. A group contact made regularly (same day of the week, same time and frequency) is
called a “net”. Nets exist for different purposes, such as exchange of messages related to
emergencies, health and welfare information, weather conditions and others.
2.3.3 Radiosport
Radiosport is the term for a variety of amateur radio competitive activities. Some are sponsored by
the IARU, others by amateur radio national societies or amateur radio magazines, and a few have
their origins in state-sponsored sport programmes. These activities have formal rules published by
the sponsors, have measures of performance or achievement, and normally involve publication of
results and issuance of a certificate or diploma.
2.3.3.1 Contesting
Contesting is a competitive activity usually involving an attempt to reach a goal, perhaps to make
contact with as many amateur stations as possible during a given time period, on certain frequencies
and within specified geographical areas. There are contests throughout the year, particularly on
weekends.
10 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

An example of a contest is the “CQ-M International DX Contest” sponsored by the Russian national
amateur radio society – Soyuz Radiolyubitelei Rossii (SRR). The stated purpose of this contest is
“to unite people in peaceful coexistence, foster mutual understanding, and engage in sportsmanship
and cooperation through amateur radio”. It normally operates on a second full weekend in May of
each year on amateur service bands at 1.8, 3.5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 MHz.

2.3.3.2 Awards programmes

In recognition of international two-way amateur radio communication, the IARU issues Worked-
All-Continents (WAC) certificates to amateur radio stations of the world. Qualification for the
WAC award is based on an examination by the International Secretariat, or a member-society, of
the IARU of QSL (“I am acknowledging receipt”) cards that the applicant has received from other
amateur stations in each of the six continents.

DXCC is an award issued by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) for proof of a station
contacting stations in at least 100 different countries.

Islands on the Air (IOTA), sponsored by the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB), is intended to
encourage contacts with amateur stations on islands throughout the world.

Many national amateur radio societies issue certificates or diplomas for contacting a certain number
of amateur stations in their territories under specified conditions.

2.3.3.3 DXpeditions

DX (meaning “long distance”) expeditions, “DXpeditions,” are organized to put rare locations
(countries or remote places with few or no regularly operated amateur stations) on the air for limited
times. They provide amateur stations the opportunity to make contact with these rare locations and
exchange QSL cards as proof of contact.

2.3.3.4 Amateur radio direction finding

Amateur radio direction finding (ARDF), sometimes called “orienteering” or “rabbit hunting,” is a
time limited race to demonstrate skills in searching for radio transmitters. Amateur service bands at
3.5 MHz and 144 MHz are normally used. ARDF began in Northern and Eastern Europe but has
spread world wide, particularly the Northern Hemisphere. Annual ARDF activities are conducted in
a number of countries operating under IARU rules. IARU sponsors World Championships.

2.3.3.5 High speed telegraphy

High speed telegraphy (HST) challenges operators to correctly copy Morse code at the highest
possible speeds. International world championships are sponsored by the IARU.

2.4 Role of the amateur service in emergency telecommunications

Its wide scope of activities and the skills of amateur radio operators make the amateur service a
valuable asset in emergency telecommunications. It has a large number of operational amateur
stations in almost all countries of the world, providing a robust network independent from any
other. In many cases, it has provided the first, and sometimes the only, link outside the area affected
by disaster. The amateur service has training programmes and emergency simulation exercises
developed by some of the national amateur radio societies.
Chapter 2 11

Typical situations for which the amateur service can supplement emergency communications
include:
– Initial emergency alerts may originate from individual amateur stations to bring an incident
to the attention of competent institutional emergency services.
– In search and rescue operations, amateur stations can reinforce the professional teams by
increasing their communication capabilities and reporting observations.
– Hospitals and similar establishments might in the aftermath of a disaster be without
communications. Local amateur radio emergency groups prepare in advance for such
assistance.
– Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) and other incidents may require the evacuation of
residents, and coordination between the disaster site and the evacuation sites or shelters.
Amateur emergency stations may be asked to establish communications with such
institutions.

2.4.1 Amateur networks available for emergency telecommunications

2.4.1.1 Short-range networks

Amateur short-range networks provide operational or tactical communications at the site of a

disaster and with the surrounding areas. They can include fixed, mobile and nomadic equipment
typically using frequencies in the bands 50-54 MHz, 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz, noting that
there are regional and national differences in these frequency ranges.

Repeater stations are used to extend the communication range of VHF and UHF stations. Positioned
in elevated locations, they allow communication between fixed or mobile amateur stations
separated by obstructions such as mountains or tall buildings when operating in an urban
environment. A repeater station receives on one channel and transmits on a different frequency,
usually within the same frequency band.

2.4.1.2 Medium-range networks

Amateur medium-range networks typically provide communication from the disaster site to
organizational and administrative centres outside an affected area, or to headquarters of response
providers in neighbouring countries. They also ensure communication with vehicles, vessels and
aircraft operating outside the coverage of available VHF or UHF networks. Communication at
medium distances of up to 500 km may be accomplished by near-vertical-incidence sky-wave
(NVIS) propagation at lower MF/HF in bands 1 800-2 000 kHz, 3 500-4 000 kHz and 7 000-
7 300 kHz, noting that there are regional and national differences in these bands. In addition, several
national administrations have designated specific frequencies (channels) for amateur radio
emergency traffic and related training.

2.4.1.3 Long-range networks

Amateur long-range networks provide communication with headquarters of international

emergency and disaster response providers. They serve as backup connections between offices of
such institutions in different countries or on different continents. Amateur stations routinely
communicate over long distances typically beyond 500 km, using oblique-incidence sky-wave
propagation in bands from 3 500 kHz through 29.7 MHz.
12 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

2.5 Amateur systems

For the purpose of sharing studies, characteristics of typical amateur systems are documented in
Recommendation ITU-R M.1732.

2.5.1 Telegraphy systems

Morse code – International Morse code in accordance with Recommendation ITU-R M.1677
continues to be used in the amateur service despite the removal of the mandatory requirement for
demonstration of Morse proficiency from RR Article 25 at WRC-03. Some administrations have
discontinued Morse testing while others have maintained an examination at 5 words per minute for
certain classes of amateur licences. Morse code telegraphy is does not require complex equipment
and is a robust mode capable of operation with weak signals during poor conditions.

Radioteletype – Known as RTTY in the amateur service, this mode involves teleprinters at each
end of the radio circuit. There continues to be 45 Bd, start-stop, frequency-shift RTTY operation
and narrow-band direct-printing (NBDP) using a variant of Recommendation ITU-R M.476 (known
as AMTOR) in the amateur service HF bands. The trend is toward replacing these modes with
narrow-band PSK systems such as PSK31 and various data communications modes.

PSK31 – PSK31 is a digital communications mode intended for interactive keyboard operation
between personal computers and an amateur single-sideband (SSB) transceiver. Its data rate is
31.25 Bd (about 30 words per minute) and its emission symbol is 60H0J2B. It is implemented using
software written for personal computer sound cards.

2.5.2 Data communications systems

PACTOR-II – PACTOR-II is an adaptive data communications system using different modulation

and encoding methods depending on channel quality. It uses two-tone differential phase-shift
keying (DPSK) modulation. With data compression, its effective throughput is 1 200 bit/s. Its
emission symbol is 375HJ2D.

PACTOR-III – This and other voice-frequency bandwidth data communications systems are
gaining increased use in the amateur service. It is a software upgrade for existing PACTOR-II
modems. Through the use of compression, throughputs up to 5 200 bit/s are achieved. Its emission
symbol is 2K20J2D.

CLOVER 2000 – Data compression permits throughputs up to 5 200 bit/s. Its emission symbol is
2K00J2D.

MFSK16 – This is a data communications system using 16-tone frequency-shift keying, affording a
data rate of 3 000 bit/s. Its emission symbol is 316HJ2D.

APRS – An automatic position reporting system (APRS) is in operation in the amateur service.
Individual mobile units derive their locations from global positioning satellites, and report tracking,
mapping and related data to amateur stations via HF or VHF amateur packet radio.
Chapter 2 13

2.5.3 Internetworking

The Internet is used as an interconnection between amateur service networks. Several methods have
been developed.

WinLink 2000 – This method permits automatic transfer of messages between the Internet and
remote amateur stations.

IRLP – The Internet Radio Linking Project (IRLP) uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) for
interconnection of amateur stations by means of the Internet.

EchoLink – This system links a personal computer to an amateur station via the Internet.

2.5.4 Telephony systems

SSB – Amateur single sideband suppressed carrier telephony has virtually replaced double-sideband
amplitude-modulated telephony in the amateur service. The emission symbol is 2K70J3E, although
there is some use of narrower and wider bandwidths. SSB is used on frequencies from 1.8 MHz
through 47.2 GHz.

Digital voice – Digital voice has been used in the amateur service since the year 2000.
Two orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) technologies have been used, one based
on the AMBE encoder-decoder and the other a variant of Digital Radio Mondiale (DRM) modified
to fit inside a 2.7 kHz bandwidth. Early applications have been on HF including transatlantic tests.
Use in VHF/UHF/microwave bands is expected to increase.

Frequency modulated voice – FM voice, emission symbols 11K0F3E and 16K0F3E, are in use
from 29 MHz to 47.2 GHz. The use of FM repeaters for extension of range is common.

2.5.5 Image communications systems

SSTV – Amateurs use slow-scan television SSTV systems currently employing cameras and
personal computers with special software for slow transmissions of colour images in voice-
frequency bandwidths.

FSTV – Most amateur fast-scan television, using NTSC or PAL systems, involves the use of
repeaters for extension of ranges. FSTV systems operate on frequencies above 420 MHz.

DATV – Radio amateurs have developed full-motion digital television using digital compression
techniques in bandwidths of 1.5 Mbit/s to 2 Mbit/s in frequencies above 420 MHz.

2.5.6 Multimedia systems

There is continuing research in amateur systems capable of combining data, voice and image
communications. There is some use of wireless-standard equipment in the band 2 400-2 450 MHz,
in accordance with limitations of domestic amateur licences, to achieve extended ranges.
14 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

D-Star – This is a digital voice and data system developed by the Japan Amateur Radio League
(JARL) in cooperation with the administration and industry. It is designed for user access at VHF.
Digitized voice/audio signals and short data messages are supported. Modulation methods
supported are: GMSK, QPSK and 4-FSK, at a date rate of 4.8 kbit/s. Voice encoding method is
AMBE (2020) at 2.4 kbit/s within 6 kHz bandwidth. For data, the transmission rate is 128 kbit/s
within a bandwidth of 150 kHz.

Backbone communication between repeaters containing multiplexed digitized voice/audio, user

data, and link control data signals at 10 Mbit/s within a bandwidth of 10.5 MHz.

2.6 Experimentation in the amateur service

The amateur service is, at least in part, an experimental service offering the possibility of proving
performance of new technologies.

2.6.1 System development

The most concentrated efforts by radio amateurs are developing advanced digital transmission of
data and multimedia information.

2.6.2 Antenna design

Typical amateur stations are located in residences or in private automobiles. Both installations
present antenna installation constraints, and there is a continual need to develop innovative antenna
system designs.

2.6.3 Personal computers

Personal computers (PCs) are now part of virtually every amateur station. Nevertheless, there is
need for development of software to assume functions heretofore performed by hardware. In
addition to programmes implemented using the PC central processor, attention is being given to
software to exploit the capabilities of PC sound cards for functions such as modems.

2.6.4 Propagation research

In the early days of radio, radio amateurs were credited with discovery and exploitation of
propagation modes. While other communication services are interested in reliable propagation to
deliver a required signal, amateurs are also motivated to find unusual propagation openings.

Radio amateurs operate a global HF beacon system known as the IARU Beacon Project,
http://www.ncdxf.org/beacons.html. In addition, there are HF, VHF, UHF and SHF beacons in
many countries to give real-time signals to indicate a propagation path.

2.6.5 Digital signal processing

There is work on DSP implementations of filters and modems. Radio amateurs have developed
digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms for reduction or suppression of atmospheric noise
(static), power-line noise and certain types of interfering signals. These techniques have been
implemented in commercial products and experimentation continues.
Chapter 3 15

CHAPTER 3

AMATEUR-SATELLITE SERVICE

3.1 Applications of bands allocated to the amateur-satellite service

The following table describes typical applications of frequency bands available to the amateur-
satellite service. Refer to RR Article 5 for the specific allocation status of each band.

Frequency band
Wavelength (MHz) Applications
(R = Region)
40 m 7 000-7 100 (primary) These bands are identified only for limited satellite application, such as
20 m 14 000-14 250 (primary) ionospheric research, because of potential interference to and from
terrestrial users.
17 m 18 068-18 168 For example It is planned that South African Cubesat ZACube-1 will
(conditions of co-primary operate at 14 MHz to support auroral research
use with other services in
a number of countries are
given in RR No. 5.154)
15 m 21 000-21 450 (primary)
12 m 24 890-24 990 (primary)
10 m 28 000-29 700 (primary) This band is used primarily in conjunction with an input or output in the
144 MHz band.
Frequency band
(MHz)
2m 144-146 (primary) These bands are in heavy use by numerous amateur satellites for inputs
70 cm 435-438 (secondary) and outputs.
RR No. 5.282
23 cm 1 260-1 270 (secondary) These bands are used as alternatives to the 144 MHz and 435 MHz bands
Earth-to-space only because of congestion.
RR No. 5.282
13 cm 2 400-2 450 (secondary)
RR No. 5.282
9 cm 3 400-3 410 (secondary)
Regions 2 and 3 only
RR No. 5.282
5 cm 5 650-5 670 (Secondary) These bands are used for experimental amateur satellites.
Earth-to-space only
RR No. 5.282
5 830-5 850 (secondary)
Space-to-earth only
16 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Frequency band
Wavelength (MHz) Applications
(R = Region)
3 cm 10.45-10.5 (secondary) These bands are used for experimental amateur satellite communications.
1.2 cm 24-24.05 (primary)
6 mm 47-47.2 (primary) These bands are used for experimental amateur satellites.
4 mm 76-77.5 (secondary)
77.5-78 (primary)
78-81 (secondary)
2 mm 134-136 (primary)
2 mm 136-141 (secondary)
1 mm 241-248 (secondary)
1 mm 248-250 (primary)

3.2 Background
The amateur-satellite programme began in 1961 with the design and launch of OSCAR (the first
satellite using the acronym Orbiting Satellite Carrying Amateur Radio). The original Project
OSCAR group was responsible for the first 4 amateur satellites. In 1969 the Radio Amateur
Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) was formed in the USA. This was followed by the establishment of
organizations in other countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Denmark, Germany,
Italy, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Portugal, the Russian Republic
(and the former Soviet Union), the Republic of South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Turkey and the United
Kingdom. With some exceptions, these satellites were built by licensed radio amateurs, including
university students. Recent developments in nano and pico-satellites (such as Cubesats) have led to
a considerable increase in university and other groups developing and launching amateur satellites
in addition to the original AMSAT groups.
Most satellites have been of the low-Earth-orbiting (LEO) type. Some have been designed for
highly elliptical orbits (HEOs). Owing to cost, there have been no geostationary satellite orbit
(GSO) satellites in the amateur-satellite service. Technology developed in the amateur-satellite
service has been applied directly to commercial LEO satellite systems, and the amateur-satellite
service has served as a training ground for design engineers.

3.3 Operational amateur satellites

The following table is for illustrative purpose only and does not include every amateur service
nano/pico-satellite. Note that there is no requirement for an OSCAR number to be assigned to a
satellite in order for it to be legitimately recognized and used in the amateur satellite service.
Chapter 3 17

Satellite Launch Observations

AMSAT-OSCAR 7 1974 Linear transponder, beacons (sunlight hours)
UoSat-OSCAR 11 1984 Telemetry beacon
AMRAD-OSCAR 27 1993 FM voice repeater, packet telemetry
Fuji-OSCAR 29 1996 9 600-Bd store-and forward, linear transponder, beacon, “digitalker”
Gurwin-OSCAR 32 1998 9 600-Bd packet bulletin board
SEDSat-OSCAR 33 1998 9 600-Bd packet repeater
Navy-OSCAR 44 2001 1 200-Bd store-and-forward digital repeater
Saudi-OSCAR 50 2002 FM repeater and several experiments
RS-22 2003 Telemetry beacon
VUSat-OSCAR 52 2005 Linear transponder and Morse CW beacon
CubeSat-OSCAR 55 2003 Telemetry beacons
CubeSat-OSCAR 57 2003 Beacon and telemetry
CubeSat-OSCAR 58 2005 Beacon and telemetry
GeneSat-1 2006 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
Delfi-OSCAR 64 2008 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
Cubesat OSCAR 65 2008 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon, 9 600-Bd digipeater
Cubesat OSCAR 66 2008 Morse CW beacon, FM packet repeater, digitalker
COMPASS-1 2008 Morse CW beacon
RS-30 2008 Morse CW beacon
PRISM 2009 Morse CW beacon, 1 200-Bd and 9 600-Bd telemetry beacons
KKS-1 2009 Morse CW beacon, digital down link
STARS 2009 Morse CW beacon, 1 200-Bd packet down link
SwissCube 2009 Morse CW beacon, 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
ITUpSAT1 2009 Morse CW beacon, 19 200-Bd telemetry beacon
UWE-2 2009 9 600-Bd telemetry beacon
BEESAT 2009 Morse CW beacon, 4 800-Bd and 9 600-Bd telemetry beacons
Hope OSCAR 68 2009 Morse CW beacon
Fastrac OSCAR 69 2010 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
Fastrac OSCAR 70 2010 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
O/OREOS 2010 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
SRMSAT 2011 Morse CW beacon
JUNGU 2011 Morse CW beacon
SRMSAT 2011 Morse CW beacon
Explorer 1 Prime Unit 2 2011 1 200-Bd telemetry beacon
MCubed 2011 9 600-Bd telemetry beacon
RAX-2 2011 9 600-Bd telemetry beacon
AO-71 2011 Morse CW beacon
PW-Sat 2012 Morse CW beacon
MO-72 2012 625-Bd and 1 250-Bd telemetry beacons

ARISS Ongoing Amateur Radio on the International Space Station (ARISS) includes
voice communications, packet radio, digital television and several
experiments.
NOTE – Additional information is available at http://www.amsat.org.

Amateur and amateur-satellite services Chapter 3

18 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

3.4 Amateur earth stations

Amateur earth stations in the amateur-satellite service fall into two classes: telecommand and users.

Telecommand stations located throughout the world are privileged to turn amateur satellites on and
off, and to modify their operation in accordance with RR No. 25.11.

User stations are licensed amateur stations with essentially the same equipment as used for
terrestrial amateur operations. The primary differences are antennas and transmitter-receivers
optimized for amateur-satellite operations.

An increasingly common practice is for multiple amateur stations to receive telemetry and
automatically upload it to the telecommand station via the Internet to provide greater orbital
coverage.

3.5 Experimentation in the amateur-satellite service

The amateur-satellite service is highly experimental. It was not certain at the beginning of the
OSCAR programme whether small groups of amateurs could design satellites, arrange for their
launch, develop sufficient financial resources, and manage orbiting satellites. These questions were
answered positively in the early years of the programme. Each satellite offered new challenges that
were successfully met by licensed amateurs.

Because resources were scarce and were scattered in different countries, it became necessary to use
“distributed engineering” to accomplish design, construction and testing of amateur satellites.
Internet e-mail, amateur-satellite conferences and amateur radio communications were instrumental
in the coordination.

In addition to solving “radio” design challenges, many lessons were learned concerning the physical
and thermal design of the spacecraft, attitude control, power system management and orbital
mechanics. The amateur-satellite service has proven to be a good training ground for satellite
technology.

3.6 Frequency co-ordination in the amateur-satellite service

The International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) provides advice and frequency co-ordination to
assist amateur satellite builders and prospective builders. More information can be found regarding
this at: http://www.iaru.org/satellite.html
Chapter 4 19

CHAPTER 4

EXTRACTS OF RADIO REGULATIONS (EDITION OF 2012)

ARTICLE 1

Terms and definitions

Section III – Radio services

1.56 amateur service: A radiocommunication service for the purpose of self-

training, intercommunication and technical investigations carried out by amateurs, that is, by
duly authorized persons interested in radio technique solely with a personal aim and without
pecuniary interest.

1.57 amateur-satellite service: A radiocommunication service using space

stations on earth satellites for the same purposes as those of the amateur service.
20 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

ARTICLE 5

Frequency Allocations
Section I – Regions and areas

5.2 For the allocation of frequencies the world has been divided into three
Regions 1 as shown on the following map and described in Nos. 5.3 to 5.9:

1 7 0 °
1 7 0 °

1 6 0 ° 1 4 0 ° 1 2 0 ° 1 0 0 ° 8 0 ° 6 0 ° 4 0 ° 2 0 ° 0 ° 2 0 ° 4 0 ° 6 0 ° 8 0 ° 1 0 0 ° 1 2 0 ° 1 4 0 ° 1 6 0 ° 1 8 0 °
+ * )
7 5 ° 7 5 °

6 0 ° R E G IO N 1 6 0 °
R E G IO N 2
4 0 ° 4 0 °
3 0 ° 3 0 °
2 0 ° 2 0 °

0 ° 0 °

2 0 ° 2 0 °
3 0 ° 3 0 °
4 0 ° 4 0 °
R E G IO N 3 R E G IO N 3
+ * )
6 0 ° 6 0 °
1 6 0 ° 1 4 0 ° 1 2 0 ° 1 0 0 ° 8 0 ° 6 0 ° 4 0 ° 2 0 ° 0 ° 2 0 ° 4 0 ° 6 0 ° 8 0 ° 1 0 0 ° 1 2 0 ° 1 4 0 ° 1 6 0 ° 1 8 0 °
1 7 0 °

1 7 0 °
5 -0 1
The shaded part represents the Tropical Zones as defined in Nos. 5.16 to 5.20 and 5.21.

5.3 Region 1: Region 1 includes the area limited on the east by line A (lines A, B and C are
defined below) and on the west by line B, excluding any of the territory of the Islamic Republic
of Iran which lies between these limits. It also includes the whole of the territory of Armenia,
Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan,
Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Turkey and Ukraine and the area to the north of Russian Federation
which lies between lines A and C.
5.4 Region 2: Region 2 includes the area limited on the east by line B and on the
west by line C.
5.5 Region 3: Region 3 includes the area limited on the east by line C and on the
west by line A, except any of the territory of Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation,
Georgia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Turkey and
Ukraine and the area to the north of Russian Federation. It also includes that part of the territory
of the Islamic Republic of Iran lying outside of those limits.

1
5.2.1 It should be noted that where the words “regions” or “regional” are without a capital “R” in these
Regulations, they do not relate to the three Regions here defined for purposes of frequency allocation.
Chapter 4 21

5.6 The lines A, B and C are defined as follows:

5.7 Line A: Line A extends from the North Pole along meridian 40° East of
Greenwich to parallel 40° North; thence by great circle arc to the intersection of meridian 60°
East and the Tropic of Cancer; thence along the meridian 60° East to the South Pole.

5.8 Line B: Line B extends from the North Pole along meridian 10° West of
Greenwich to its intersection with parallel 72° North; thence by great circle arc to the
intersection of meridian 50° West and parallel 40° North; thence by great circle arc to the
intersection of meridian 20° West and parallel 10° South; thence along meridian 20° West to the
South Pole.

5.9 Line C: Line C extends from the North Pole by great circle arc to the
intersection of parallel 65° 30′ North with the international boundary in Bering Strait; thence by
great circle arc to the intersection of meridian 165° East of Greenwich and parallel 50° North;
thence by great circle arc to the intersection of meridian 170° West and parallel 10° North;
thence along parallel 10° North to its intersection with meridian 120° West; thence along
meridian 120° West to the South Pole.

5.10 For the purposes of these Regulations, the term “African Broadcasting Area”
means:

5.11 a) African countries, parts of countries, territories and groups of territories

situated between the parallels 40° South and 30° North;

5.12 b) islands in the Indian Ocean west of meridian 60° East of Greenwich, situated
between the parallel 40° South and the great circle arc joining the points 45° East,
11° 30′ North and 60° East, 15° North;

5.13 c) islands in the Atlantic Ocean east of line B defined in No. 5.8 of these
Regulations, situated between the parallels 40° South and 30° North.

5.14 The “European Broadcasting Area” is bounded on the west by the western
boundary of Region 1, on the east by the meridian 40° East of Greenwich and on the south by the
parallel 30° North so as to include the northern part of Saudi Arabia and that part of those
countries bordering the Mediterranean within these limits. In addition, Armenia, Azerbaijan,
Georgia and those parts of the territories of Iraq, Jordan, Syrian Arab Republic, Turkey and
Ukraine lying outside the above limits are included in the European Broadcasting Area. (WRC-07)

5.15 The “European Maritime Area” is bounded to the north by a line extending
along parallel 72° North from its intersection with meridian 55° East of Greenwich to its
intersection with meridian 5° West, then along meridian 5° West to its intersection with parallel
67° North, thence along parallel 67° North to its intersection with meridian 32° West; to the west
by a line extending along meridian 32° West to its intersection with parallel 30° North; to the
south by a line extending along parallel 30° North to its intersection with meridian 43° East; to
the east by a line extending along meridian 43° East to its intersection with parallel 60° North,
thence along parallel 60° North to its intersection with meridian 55° East and thence along
meridian 55° East to its intersection with parallel 72° North.
22 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.16 1) The “Tropical Zone” (see map in No. 5.2) is defined as:

5.17 a) the whole of that area in Region 2 between the Tropics of Cancer and
Capricorn;

5.18 b) the whole of that area in Regions 1 and 3 contained between the parallels 30°
North and 35° South with the addition of:

5.19 i) The area contained between the meridians 40° East and 80° East of
Greenwich and the parallels 30° North and 40° North;

5.20 ii) that part of Libyan Arab Jamahiriya north of parallel 30° North.

5.21 2) In Region 2, the Tropical Zone may be extended to parallel 33° North,
subject to special agreements between the countries concerned in that Region (see Article 6).

5.22 A sub-Region is an area consisting of two or more countries in the same

Region.

Section II – Categories of services and allocations

5.23 Primary and secondary services

5.24 1) Where, in a box of the Table in Section IV of this Article, a band is

indicated as allocated to more than one service, either on a worldwide or Regional basis, such
services are listed in the following order:

5.25 a) services the names of which are printed in “capitals” (example: FIXED);
these are called “primary” services;

5.26 b) services the names of which are printed in “normal characters” (example:
Mobile); these are called “secondary” services (see Nos. 5.28 to 5.31).

5.27 2) Additional remarks shall be printed in normal characters (example:

MOBILE except aeronautical mobile).

5.28 3) Stations of a secondary service:

5.29 a) shall not cause harmful interference to stations of primary services to which
frequencies are already assigned or to which frequencies may be assigned at a later
date;

5.30 b) cannot claim protection from harmful interference from stations of a primary
service to which frequencies are already assigned or may be assigned at a later date;

5.31 c) can claim protection, however, from harmful interference from stations of the
same or other secondary service(s) to which frequencies may be assigned at a later
date.

5.32 4) Where a band is indicated in a footnote of the Table as allocated to a

service “on a secondary basis” in an area smaller than a Region, or in a particular country, this is
a secondary service (see Nos. 5.28 to 5.31).
Chapter 4 23

5.33 5) Where a band is indicated in a footnote of the Table as allocated to a

service “on a primary basis”, in an area smaller than a Region, or in a particular country, this is a
primary service only in that area or country.

5.34 Additional allocations

5.35 1) Where a band is indicated in a footnote of the Table as “also allocated” to

a service in an area smaller than a Region, or in a particular country, this is an “additional”
allocation, i.e. an allocation which is added in this area or in this country to the service or
services which are indicated in the Table (see No. 5.36).

5.36 2) If the footnote does not include any restriction on the service or services
concerned apart from the restriction to operate only in a particular area or country, stations of
this service or these services shall have equality of right to operate with stations of the other
primary service or services indicated in the Table.

5.37 3) If restrictions are imposed on an additional allocation in addition to the

restriction to operate only in a particular area or country, this is indicated in the footnote of the
Table.

5.38 Alternative allocations

5.39 1) Where a band is indicated in a footnote of the Table as “allocated” to one

or more services in an area smaller than a Region, or in a particular country, this is an
“alternative” allocation, i.e. an allocation which replaces, in this area or in this country, the
allocation indicated in the Table (see No. 5.40).

5.40 2) If the footnote does not include any restriction on stations of the service
or services concerned, apart from the restriction to operate only in a particular area or country,
these stations of such a service or services shall have an equality of right to operate with stations
of the primary service or services, indicated in the Table, to which the band is allocated in other
areas or countries.

5.41 3) If restrictions are imposed on stations of a service to which an alternative

allocation is made, in addition to the restriction to operate only in a particular country or area,
this is indicated in the footnote.

5.42 Miscellaneous provisions

5.43 1) Where it is indicated in these Regulations that a service or stations in a

service may operate in a specific frequency band subject to not causing harmful interference to
another service or to another station in the same service, this means also that the service which is
subject to not causing harmful interference cannot claim protection from harmful interference
caused by the other service or other station in the same service. (WRC-2000)

5.43A 1bis) Where it is indicated in these Regulations that a service or stations in a

service may operate in a specific frequency band subject to not claiming protection from another
service or from another station in the same service, this means also that the service which is
subject to not claiming protection shall not cause harmful interference to the other service or
other station in the same service. (WRC-2000)
24 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.44 2) Except if otherwise specified in a footnote, the term “fixed service”,

where appearing in Section IV of this Article, does not include systems using ionospheric scatter
propagation.

Section IV – Table of Frequency Allocations

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
kHz
135.7-137.8 135.7-137.8 135.7-137.8
FIXED FIXED FIXED
MARITIME MOBILE MARITIME MOBILE MARITIME MOBILE
Amateur 5.67A Amateur 5.67A RADIONAVIGATION
Amateur 5.67A
5.64 5.67 5.67B 5.64 5.64 5.67B
472-479
MARITIME MOBILE 5.79
Amateur 5.80A
Aeronautical radionavigation 5.77 5.80
5.80B 5.82
1 800-1 810 1 800-1 850 1 800-2 000
RADIOLOCATION AMATEUR AMATEUR
5.93 FIXED
MOBILE except aeronautical
1 810-1 850
mobile
AMATEUR
RADIONAVIGATION
5.98 5.99 5.100 5.101 Radiolocation
1 850-2 000 1 850-2 000
FIXED AMATEUR
MOBILE except aeronautical FIXED
mobile MOBILE except aeronautical
mobile
RADIOLOCATION
RADIONAVIGATION
5.92 5.96 5.103 5.102 5.97

5.64 Only classes A1A or F1B, A2C, A3C, F1C or F3C emissions are authorized for
stations of the fixed service in the bands allocated to this service between 90 kHz and 160 kHz
(148.5 kHz in Region 1) and for stations of the maritime mobile service in the bands allocated to
this service between 110 kHz and 160 kHz (148.5 kHz in Region 1). Exceptionally, class J2B or
J7B emissions are also authorized in the bands between 110 kHz and 160 kHz (148.5 kHz in
Region 1) for stations of the maritime mobile service.

5.67 Additional allocation: in Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, the band

130-148.5 kHz is also allocated to the radionavigation service on a secondary basis. Within and
between these countries this service shall have an equal right to operate. (WRC-07)

5.67A Stations in the amateur service using frequencies in the band 135.7-137.8 kHz shall
not exceed a maximum radiated power of 1 W (e.i.r.p.) and shall not cause harmful interference
to stations of the radionavigation service operating in countries listed in No. 5.67. (WRC-07)
Chapter 4 25

5.67B The use of the band 135.7-137.8 kHz in Algeria, Egypt, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq,
Lebanon, Syrian Arab Republic, Sudan, South Sudan and Tunisia is limited to the fixed and
maritime mobile services. The amateur service shall not be used in the above-mentioned
countries in the band 135.7-137.8 kHz, and this should be taken into account by the countries
authorizing such use. (WRC-12)

5.77 Different category of service: in Australia, China, the French overseas communities
of Region 3, Korea (Rep. of), India, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Japan, Pakistan, Papua New
Guinea and Sri Lanka, the allocation of the frequency band 415-495 kHz to the aeronautical
radionavigation service is on a primary basis. In Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, the Russian
Federation, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the allocation of the frequency band
435-495 kHz to the aeronautical radionavigation service is on a primary basis. Administrations in
all the aforementioned countries shall take all practical steps necessary to ensure that
aeronautical radionavigation stations in the frequency band 435-495 kHz do not cause
interference to reception by coast stations of transmissions from ship stations on frequencies
designated for ship stations on a worldwide basis. (WRC-12)

5.79 The use of the bands 415-495 kHz and 505-526.5 kHz (505-510 kHz in Region 2)
by the maritime mobile service is limited to radiotelegraphy.

5.80A The maximum equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) of stations in the
amateur service using frequencies in the band 472-479 kHz shall not exceed 1 W.
Administrations may increase this limit of e.i.r.p. to 5 W in portions of their territory which are
at a distance of over 800 km from the borders of Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain,
Belarus, China, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, the Russian Federation, Iran
(Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania,
Oman, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Syrian Arab Republic, Kyrgyzstan, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, Ukraine
and Yemen. In this frequency band, stations in the amateur service shall not cause harmful
interference to, or claim protection from, stations of the aeronautical radionavigation
service. (WRC-12)

5.80B The use of the frequency band 472-479 kHz in Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan,
Bahrain, Belarus, China, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, the Russian
Federation, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Mauritania, Oman, Uzbekistan,
Qatar, Syrian Arab Republic, Kyrgyzstan, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen is limited to the
maritime mobile and aeronautical radionavigation services. The amateur service shall not be
used in the above-mentioned countries in this frequency band, and this should be taken into
account by the countries authorizing such use. (WRC-12)

5.82 In the maritime mobile service, the frequency 490 kHz is to be used exclusively for
the transmission by coast stations of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent
information to ships, by means of narrow-band direct-printing telegraphy. The conditions for use
of the frequency 490 kHz are prescribed in Articles 31 and 52. In using the frequency band 415-
495 kHz for the aeronautical radionavigation service, administrations are requested to ensure that
no harmful interference is caused to the frequency 490 kHz. In using the frequency band 472-
479 kHz for the amateur service, administrations shall ensure that no harmful interference is
caused to the frequency 490 kHz. (WRC-12)

5.92 Some countries of Region 1 use radiodetermination systems in the bands

1 606.5-1 625 kHz, 1 635-1 800 kHz, 1 850-2 160 kHz, 2 194-2 300 kHz, 2 502-2 850 kHz and
3 500-3 800 kHz, subject to agreement obtained under No. 9.21. The radiated mean power of
these stations shall not exceed 50 W.
26 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.93 Additional allocation: in Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, the Russian Federation,
Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Nigeria, Uzbekistan, Poland,
Kyrgyzstan, Slovakia, Tajikistan, Chad, Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the bands 1 625-1 635 kHz,
1 800-1 810 kHz and 2 160-2 170 kHz are also allocated to the fixed and land mobile services on
a primary basis, subject to agreement obtained under No. 9.21. (WRC-12)

5.96 In Germany, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Denmark, Estonia, the Russian
Federation, Finland, Georgia, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Kazakhstan, Latvia,
Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova, Norway, Uzbekistan, Poland, Kyrgyzstan, Slovakia,
the Czech Rep., the United Kingdom, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and
Ukraine, administrations may allocate up to 200 kHz to their amateur service in the bands 1 715-
1 800 kHz and 1 850-2 000 kHz. However, when allocating the bands within this range to their
amateur service, administrations shall, after prior consultation with administrations of
neighbouring countries, take such steps as may be necessary to prevent harmful interference
from their amateur service to the fixed and mobile services of other countries. The mean power
of any amateur station shall not exceed 10 W. (WRC-03)

5.97 In Region 3, the Loran system operates either on 1 850 kHz or 1 950 kHz, the bands
occupied being 1 825-1 875 kHz and 1 925-1 975 kHz respectively. Other services to which the
band 1 800-2 000 kHz is allocated may use any frequency therein on condition that no harmful
interference is caused to the Loran system operating on 1 850 kHz or 1 950 kHz.

5.98 Alternative allocation: in Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium,

Cameroon, Congo (Rep. of the), Denmark, Egypt, Eritrea, Spain, Ethiopia, the Russian
Federation, Georgia, Greece, Italy, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Lithuania, the Syrian Arab Republic,
Kyrgyzstan, Somalia, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Turkey and Ukraine, the band 1 810-
1 830 kHz is allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services on a primary
basis. (WRC-12)

5.99 Additional allocation: in Saudi Arabia, Austria, Iraq, Libya, Uzbekistan, Slovakia,
Romania, Slovenia, Chad, and Togo, the band 1 810-1 830 kHz is also allocated to the fixed and
mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.100 In Region 1, the authorization to use the band 1 810-1 830 kHz by the amateur service
in countries situated totally or partially north of 40° N shall be given only after consultation with
the countries mentioned in Nos. 5.98 and 5.99 to define the necessary steps to be taken to prevent
harmful interference between amateur stations and stations of other services operating in
accordance with Nos. 5.98 and 5.99.

5.102 Alternative allocation: in Bolivia, Chile, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay,
the band 1 850-2 000 kHz is allocated to the fixed, mobile except aeronautical mobile,
radiolocation and radionavigation services on a primary basis. (WRC-07)

5.103 In Region 1, in making assignments to stations in the fixed and mobile services in the
bands 1 850-2 045 kHz, 2 194-2 498 kHz, 2 502-2 625 kHz and 2 650-2 850 kHz,
administrations should bear in mind the special requirements of the maritime mobile service.
Chapter 4 27

3 230-5 003 kHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
3 500-3 800 3 500-3 750 3 500-3 900
AMATEUR AMATEUR AMATEUR
FIXED FIXED
MOBILE except aeronautical MOBILE
mobile 5.119
5.92 3 750-4 000
3 800-3 900 AMATEUR
FIXED FIXED
AERONAUTICAL MOBILE (OR) MOBILE except aeronautical
LAND MOBILE mobile (R)
3 900-3 950 3 900-3 950
AERONAUTICAL MOBILE (OR) AERONAUTICAL MOBILE
5.123 BROADCASTING
3 950-4 000 3 950-4 000
FIXED FIXED
BROADCASTING BROADCASTING
5.122 5.125 5.126

5.119 Additional allocation: in Honduras, Mexico and Peru, the band 3 500-3 750 kHz is
also allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a primary basis. (WRC-07)

5.122 Alternative allocation: in Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay,
the band 3 750-4 000 kHz is allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile,
services on a primary basis. (WRC-07)

5.123 Additional allocation: in Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia,

South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the band 3 900-3 950 kHz is also allocated to
the broadcasting service on a primary basis, subject to agreement obtained under No. 9.21.

5.125 Additional allocation: in Greenland, the band 3 950-4 000 kHz is also allocated to
the broadcasting service on a primary basis. The power of the broadcasting stations operating in
this band shall not exceed that necessary for a national service and shall in no case exceed 5 kW.

5.126 In Region 3, the stations of those services to which the band 3 995-4 005 kHz is
allocated may transmit standard frequency and time signals.
28 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5 003-7 450 kHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
7 000-7 100 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
5.140 5.141 5.141A
7 100-7 200 AMATEUR
5.141A 5.141B
7 200-7 300 7 200-7 300 7 200-7 300
BROADCASTING AMATEUR BROADCASTING
5.142
7 300-7 400 BROADCASTING 5.134
5.143 5.143A 5.143B 5.143C 5.143D
7 400-7 450 7 400-7 450 7 400-7 450
BROADCASTING FIXED BROADCASTING
MOBILE except aeronautical
5.143B 5.143C mobile (R) 5.143A 5.143C

5.138 The following bands:

6 765-6 795 kHz (centre frequency 6 780 kHz),
433.05-434.79 MHz (centre frequency 433.92 MHz) in Region 1
except in the countries mentioned in No. 5.280,
61-61.5 GHz (centre frequency 61.25 GHz),
122-123 GHz (centre frequency 122.5 GHz), and
244-246 GHz (centre frequency 245 GHz)
are designated for industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) applications. The use of these
frequency bands for ISM applications shall be subject to special authorization by the
administration concerned, in agreement with other administrations whose radiocommunication
services might be affected. In applying this provision, administrations shall have due regard to
the latest relevant ITU-R Recommendations.
5.140 Additional allocation: in Angola, Iraq, Kenya, Somalia and Togo, the band
7 000-7 050 kHz is also allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.141 Alternative allocation: in Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guinea, Libya, Madagascar and
Niger, the band 7 000-7 050 kHz is allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)
5.141A Additional allocation: in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, the bands 7 000-7 100 kHz and
7 100-7 200 kHz are also allocated to the fixed and land mobile services on a secondary
basis. (WRC-03)

5.141B Additional allocation: in Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bahrain, Botswana,

Brunei Darussalam, China, Comoros, Korea (Rep. of), Diego Garcia, Djibouti, Egypt,
United Arab Emirates, Eritrea, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Japan, Jordan, Kuwait,
Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Niger, New Zealand, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Qatar, the Syrian
Arab Republic, Singapore, Sudan, South Sudan, Tunisia, Viet Nam and Yemen, the band 7 100-
7 200 kHz is also allocated to the fixed and the mobile, except aeronautical mobile (R), services
on a primary basis. (WRC-12)
Chapter 4 29

5.141C (SUP - WRC-12)

5.142 The use of the band 7 200-7 300 kHz in Region 2 by the amateur service shall not
impose constraints on the broadcasting service intended for use within Region 1 and
Region 3. (WRC-12)
5.143 Additional allocation: frequencies in the band 7 300-7 350 kHz may be used by
stations in the fixed service and in the land mobile service, communicating only within the
boundary of the country in which they are located, on condition that harmful interference is not
caused to the broadcasting service. When using frequencies for these services, administrations
are urged to use the minimum power required and to take account of the seasonal use of
frequencies by the broadcasting service published in accordance with the Radio
Regulations. (WRC-07)
5.143A In Region 3, frequencies in the band 7 350-7 450 kHz may be used by stations in the
fixed service on a primary basis and land mobile service on a secondary basis, communicating
only within the boundary of the country in which they are located, on condition that harmful
interference is not caused to the broadcasting service. When using frequencies for these services,
administrations are urged to use the minimum power required and to take account of the seasonal
use of frequencies by the broadcasting service published in accordance with the Radio
Regulations. (WRC-12)
5.143B In Region 1, frequencies in the band 7 350-7 450 kHz may be used by stations in the
fixed and land mobile services communicating only within the boundary of the country in which
they are located on condition that harmful interference is not caused to the broadcasting service.
The total radiated power of each station shall not exceed 24 dBW. (WRC-12)
5.143C Additional allocation: in Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt,
United Arab Emirates, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania,
Niger, Oman, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic, Sudan, South Sudan, Tunisia and Yemen, the
bands 7 350-7 400 kHz and 7 400-7 450 kHz are also allocated to the fixed service on a primary
basis. (WRC-12)
5.143D In Region 2, frequencies in the band 7 350-7 400 kHz may be used by stations in the
fixed service and in the land mobile service, communicating only within the boundary of the
country in which they are located, on condition that harmful interference is not caused to the
broadcasting service. When using frequencies for these services, administrations are urged to use
the minimum power required and to take account of the seasonal use of frequencies by the
broadcasting service published in accordance with the Radio Regulations. (WRC-12)

7 450-13 360 kHz

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

10 100-10 150 FIXED
Amateur

13 360-18 030 kHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
14 000-14 250 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
14 250-14 350 AMATEUR
5.152
30 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.149 In making assignments to stations of other services to which the bands:

13 360-13 410 kHz, 4 950-4 990 MHz, 102-109.5 GHz,

25 550-25 670 kHz, 4 990-5 000 MHz, 111.8-114.25 GHz,
37.5-38.25 MHz, 6 650-6 675.2 MHz, 128.33-128.59 GHz,
73-74.6 MHz in Regions 1 and 3, 10.6-10.68 GHz, 129.23-129.49 GHz,
150.05-153 MHz in Region 1, 14.47-14.5 GHz, 130-134 GHz,
322-328.6 MHz, 22.01-22.21 GHz, 136-148.5 GHz,
406.1-410 MHz, 22.21-22.5 GHz, 151.5-158.5 GHz,
608-614 MHz in Regions 1 and 3, 22.81-22.86 GHz, 168.59-168.93 GHz,
1 330-1 400 MHz, 23.07-23.12 GHz, 171.11-171.45 GHz,
1 610.6-1 613.8 MHz, 31.2-31.3 GHz, 172.31-172.65 GHz,
1 660-1 670 MHz, 31.5-31.8 GHz in Regions 1 and 3, 173.52-173.85 GHz,
1 718.8-1 722.2 MHz, 36.43-36.5 GHz, 195.75-196.15 GHz,
2 655-2 690 MHz, 42.5-43.5 GHz, 209-226 GHz,
3 260-3 267 MHz, 48.94-49.04 GHz, 241-250 GHz,
3 332-3 339 MHz, 76-86 GHz, 252-275 GHz
3 345.8-3 352.5 MHz, 92-94 GHz,
4 825-4 835 MHz, 94.1-100 GHz,

are allocated, administrations are urged to take all practicable steps to protect the radio
astronomy service from harmful interference. Emissions from spaceborne or airborne stations
can be particularly serious sources of interference to the radio astronomy service (see Nos. 4.5
and 4.6 and Article 29). (WRC-07)

5.150 The following bands:

13 553-13 567 kHz (centre frequency 13 560 kHz),
26 957-27 283 kHz (centre frequency 27 120 kHz),
40.66-40.70 MHz (centre frequency 40.68 MHz),
902-928 MHz in Region 2 (centre frequency 915 MHz),
2 400-2 500 MHz (centre frequency 2 450 MHz),
5 725-5 875 MHz (centre frequency 5 800 MHz), and
24-24.25 GHz (centre frequency 24.125 GHz)

are also designated for industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) applications.
Radiocommunication services operating within these bands must accept harmful interference
which may be caused by these applications. ISM equipment operating in these bands is subject to
the provisions of No. 15.13.

5.152 Additional allocation: in Armenia, Azerbaijan, China, Côte d’Ivoire, the Russian
Federation, Georgia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan,
Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the band 14 250-14 350 kHz is also allocated to the fixed service on
a primary basis. Stations of the fixed service shall not use a radiated power exceeding
24 dBW. (WRC-03)
Chapter 4 31

18 030-23 350 kHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
18 068-18 168 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
5.154
...
21 000-21 450 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE

5.154 Additional allocation: in Armenia, Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, Georgia,

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the band 18 068-18 168 kHz is
also allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis for use within their boundaries, with a peak
envelope power not exceeding 1 kW. (WRC-03)

23 350-27 500 kHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
24 890-24 990 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE

27.5-47 MHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
28-29.7 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE

5.162A Additional allocation: in Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina,

China, Vatican, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, the Russian Federation, Finland, France, Ireland,
Iceland, Italy, Latvia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Monaco, Montenegro, Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, the Czech Rep.,
the United Kingdom, Serbia, Slovenia, Sweden and Switzerland the band 46-68 MHz is also
allocated to the radiolocation service on a secondary basis. This use is limited to the operation of
wind profiler radars in accordance with Resolution 217 (WRC-97). (WRC-12)
32 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

47-75.2 MHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
47-68 47-50 47-50
BROADCASTING FIXED FIXED
MOBILE MOBILE
BROADCASTING
5.162A
50-54
AMATEUR
5.162A 5.166 5.167 5.167A 5.168 5.170
54-68 54-68
BROADCASTING FIXED
Fixed MOBILE
Mobile BROADCASTING
5.162A 5.163 5.164 5.165
5.169 5.171 5.172 5.162A

5.163 Additional allocation: in Armenia, Belarus, the Russian Federation, Georgia,

Hungary, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Moldova, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and
Ukraine, the bands 47-48.5 MHz and 56.5-58 MHz are also allocated to the fixed and land
mobile services on a secondary basis. (WRC-12)
5.164 Additional allocation: in Albania, Algeria, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and
Herzegovina, Botswana, Bulgaria, Côte d'Ivoire, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France,
Gabon, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Madagascar, Mali, Malta, Morocco, Mauritania, Monaco, Montenegro, Nigeria,
Norway, the Netherlands, Poland, Syrian Arab Republic, Slovakia, Czech Rep., Romania, the
United Kingdom, Serbia, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland, Swaziland, Chad, Togo, Tunisia and
Turkey, the band 47-68 MHz, in South Africa the band 47-50 MHz, and in Latvia the band 48.5-
56.5 MHz, are also allocated to the land mobile service on a primary basis. However, stations of
the land mobile service in the countries mentioned in connection with each band referred to in
this footnote shall not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection from, existing or
planned broadcasting stations of countries other than those mentioned in connection with the
band. (WRC-12)
5.165 Additional allocation: in Angola, Cameroon, Congo (Rep. of the), Madagascar,
Mozambique, Niger, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania and Chad, the band 47-68 MHz is
also allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services on a primary
basis. (WRC-12)
5.166 Alternative allocation: in New Zealand, the band 50-51 MHz is allocated to the
fixed and mobile services on a primary basis; the band 53-54 MHz is allocated to the fixed and
mobile services on a primary basis. (WRC-12)
5.167 Alternative allocation: in Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Iran (Islamic
Republic of), Pakistan, Singapore and Thailand, the band 50-54 MHz is allocated to the fixed,
mobile and broadcasting services on a primary basis. (WRC-07)
5.167A Additional allocation: in Indonesia, the band 50-54 MHz is also allocated to the
fixed, mobile and broadcasting services on a primary basis. (WRC-07)
Chapter 4 33

5.168 Additional allocation: in Australia, China and the Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea,
the band 50-54 MHz is also allocated to the broadcasting service on a primary basis.
5.169 Alternative allocation: in Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, the Dem. Rep. of
the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the band 50-54 MHz is
allocated to the amateur service on a primary basis. In Senegal, the band 50-51 MHz is allocated
to the amateur service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)
5.170 Additional allocation: in New Zealand, the band 51-53 MHz is also allocated to the
fixed and mobile services on a primary basis.
5.171 Additional allocation: in Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mali, Namibia, Dem. Rep. of
the Congo, Rwanda, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the band 54-68 MHz is
also allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services on a primary
basis. (WRC-12)

137.175-148 MHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
144-146 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
5.216
146-148 146-148 146-148
FIXED AMATEUR AMATEUR
MOBILE except aeronautical FIXED
mobile (R) MOBILE
5.217 5.217

5.216 Additional allocation: in China, the band 144-146 MHz is also allocated to the
aeronautical mobile (OR) service on a secondary basis.
5.217 Alternative allocation: in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cuba, Guyana and India,
the band 146-148 MHz is allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a primary basis.

220-335.4 MHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
220-225
223-230 AMATEUR 223-230
BROADCASTING FIXED FIXED
Fixed MOBILE MOBILE
Mobile Radiolocation 5.241 BROADCASTING
5.243 5.246 5.247 5.250

5.241 In Region 2, no new stations in the radiolocation service may be authorized in the
band 216-225 MHz. Stations authorized prior to 1 January 1990 may continue to operate on
a secondary basis.
34 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.243 Additional allocation: in Somalia, the band 216-225 MHz is also allocated to the
aeronautical radionavigation service on a primary basis, subject to not causing harmful
interference to existing or planned broadcasting services in other countries.
5.246 Alternative allocation: in Spain, France, Israel and Monaco, the band 223-230 MHz
is allocated to the broadcasting and land mobile services on a primary basis (see No. 5.33) on the
basis that, in the preparation of frequency plans, the broadcasting service shall have prior choice
of frequencies; and allocated to the fixed and mobile, except land mobile, services on a
secondary basis. However, the stations of the land mobile service shall not cause harmful
interference to,
or claim protection from, existing or planned broadcasting stations in Morocco and Algeria.
5.247 Additional allocation: in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan,
Oman, Qatar and Syrian Arab Republic, the band 223-235 MHz is also allocated to the
aeronautical radionavigation service on a primary basis.
5.250 Additional allocation: in China, the band 225-235 MHz is also allocated to the radio
astronomy service on a secondary basis.
410-460 MHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
420-430 FIXED
MOBILE except aeronautical mobile
Radiolocation
5.269 5.270 5.271
430-432 430-432
AMATEUR RADIOLOCATION
RADIOLOCATION Amateur
5.271 5.272 5.273 5.274
5.275 5.276 5.277 5.271 5.276 5.278 5.279
432-438 432-438
AMATEUR RADIOLOCATION
RADIOLOCATION Amateur
Earth exploration-satellite Earth exploration-satellite (active) 5.279A
(active) 5.279A
5.138 5.271 5.272 5.276
5.277 5.280 5.281 5.282 5.271 5.276 5.278 5.279 5.281 5.282
438-440 438-440
AMATEUR RADIOLOCATION
RADIOLOCATION Amateur
5.271 5.273 5.274 5.275
5.276 5.277 5.283 5.271 5.276 5.278 5.279
440-450 FIXED
MOBILE except aeronautical mobile
Radiolocation
5.269 5.270 5.271 5.284 5.285 5.286

5.269 Different category of service: in Australia, the United States, India, Japan and the
United Kingdom, the allocation of the bands 420-430 MHz and 440-450 MHz to the
radiolocation service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33).
5.270 Additional allocation: in Australia, the United States, Jamaica and the Philippines,
the bands 420-430 MHz and 440-450 MHz are also allocated to the amateur service on a
secondary basis.
Chapter 4 35

5.271 Additional allocation: in Belarus, China, India, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan,

the band 420-460 MHz is also allocated to the aeronautical radionavigation service (radio
altimeters) on a secondary basis. (WRC-07)

5.272 (SUP - WRC-12)

5.273 (SUP - WRC-12)

5.274 Alternative allocation: in Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Chad, the bands
430-432 MHz and 438-440 MHz are allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical
mobile, services on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.275 Additional allocation: in Croatia, Estonia, Finland, Libya, The Former Yugoslav
Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Slovenia, the bands 430-432 MHz and
438-440 MHz are also allocated to the fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services
on a primary basis. (WRC-07)

5.276 Additional allocation: in Afghanistan, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Bangladesh,

Brunei Darussalam, Burkina Faso, Djibouti, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ecuador, Eritrea,
Ethiopia, Greece, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jordan,
Kenya, Kuwait, Libya, Malaysia, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Pakistan, the Philippines, Qatar,
the Syrian Arab Republic, the Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea, Singapore, Somalia, Sudan,
Switzerland, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Turkey and Yemen, the band 430-440 MHz is also
allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis and the bands 430-435 MHz and 438-440 MHz
are also allocated to the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.277 Additional allocation: in Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Cameroon,

Congo (Rep. of the), Djibouti, the Russian Federation, Georgia, Hungary, Israel, Kazakhstan,
Mali, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Poland, the Dem. Rep. of the Congo, Kyrgyzstan, Slovakia,
Romania, Rwanda, Tajikistan, Chad, Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the band 430-440 MHz is also
allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.278 Different category of service: in Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guyana,
Honduras, Panama and Venezuela, the allocation of the band 430-440 MHz to the amateur
service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33).

5.279 Additional allocation: in Mexico, the bands 430-435 MHz and 438-440 MHz are
also allocated on a primary basis to the land mobile service, subject to agreement obtained under
No. 9.21.

5.279A The use of this band by sensors in the Earth exploration-satellite service (active) shall
be in accordance with Recommendation ITU-R SA.1260-1. Additionally, the Earth exploration-
satellite service (active) in the band 432-438 MHz shall not cause harmful interference to the
aeronautical radionavigation service in China. The provisions of this footnote in no way diminish
the obligation of the Earth exploration-satellite service (active) to operate as a secondary service
in accordance with Nos. 5.29 and 5.30. (WRC-03)

5.280 In Germany, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, The Former Yugoslav
Republic of Macedonia, Liechtenstein, Montenegro, Portugal, Serbia, Slovenia and Switzerland,
the band 433.05-434.79 MHz (centre frequency 433.92 MHz) is designated for industrial, scientific
and medical (ISM) applications. Radiocommunication services of these countries operating within
this band must accept harmful interference which may be caused by these applications. ISM
equipment operating in this band is subject to the provisions of No. 15.13. (WRC-07)
36 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.281 Additional allocation: in the French Overseas Departments in Region 2 and India,
the band 433.75-434.25 MHz is also allocated to the space operation service (Earth-to-space)
on a primary basis. In France and in Brazil, the band is allocated to the same service on a
secondary basis.

5.282 In the bands 435-438 MHz, 1 260-1 270 MHz, 2 400-2 450 MHz, 3 400-3 410 MHz
(in Regions 2 and 3 only) and 5 650-5 670 MHz, the amateur-satellite service may operate
subject to not causing harmful interference to other services operating in accordance with the
Table (see No. 5.43). Administrations authorizing such use shall ensure that any harmful
interference caused by emissions from a station in the amateur-satellite service is immediately
eliminated in accordance with the provisions of No. 25.11. The use of the bands 1 260-
1 270 MHz and 5 650-5 670 MHz by the amateur-satellite service is limited to the Earth-to-space
direction.

5.283 Additional allocation: in Austria, the band 438-440 MHz is also allocated to the
fixed and mobile, except aeronautical mobile, services on a primary basis.

5.284 Additional allocation: in Canada, the band 440-450 MHz is also allocated to the
amateur service on a secondary basis.

5.285 Different category of service: in Canada, the allocation of the band 440-450 MHz to
the radiolocation service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33).

5.286 The band 449.75-450.25 MHz may be used for the space operation service (Earth-to-
space) and the space research service (Earth-to-space), subject to agreement obtained under
No. 9.21.

5.317A Those parts of the band 698-960 MHz in Region 2 and the band 790-960 MHz in
Regions 1 and 3 which are allocated to the mobile service on a primary basis are identified for
use by administrations wishing to implement International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) –
see Resolutions 224 (Rev.WRC-12) and 749 (Rev.WRC-12), as appropriate. This identification
does not preclude the use of these bands by any application of the services to which they are
allocated and does not establish priority in the Radio Regulations. (WRC-12)

5.322 In Region 1, in the band 862-960 MHz, stations of the broadcasting service shall be
operated only in the African Broadcasting Area (see Nos. 5.10 to 5.13) excluding Algeria,
Burundi, Egypt, Spain, Lesotho, Libya, Morocco, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa,
Tanzania, Zimbabwe and Zambia, subject to agreement obtained under No. 9.21. (WRC-12)
Chapter 4 37

890-1 300 MHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

890-942 890-942
FIXED FIXED
MOBILE except aeronautical MOBILE 5.317A
mobile 5.317A BROADCASTING
BROADCASTING 5.322 Radiolocation
Radiolocation
902-928
FIXED
Amateur
Mobile except aeronautical mobile
5.325A
Radiolocation
5.150 5.325 5.326
5.323 5.327
...
1 240-1 300 EARTH EXPLORATION-SATELLITE (active)
RADIOLOCATION
RADIONAVIGATION-SATELLITE (space-to-Earth) (space-to-space)
5.328B 5.329 5.329A
SPACE RESEARCH (active)
Amateur
5.282 5.330 5.331 5.332 5.335 5.335A

5.325 Different category of service: in the United States, the allocation of the band 890-
942 MHz to the radiolocation service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33), subject to agreement
obtained under No. 9.21.

5.325A Different category of service: in Cuba, the allocation of the band 902-915 MHz to
the land mobile service is on a primary basis. (WRC-2000)

5.326 Different category of service: in Chile, the band 903-905 MHz is allocated to the
mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service on a primary basis, subject to agreement obtained
under No. 9.21.

5.327 Different category of service: in Australia, the allocation of the band 915-928 MHz
to the radiolocation service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33).

5.327A The use of the frequency band 960-1 164 MHz by the aeronautical mobile (R)
service is limited to systems that operate in accordance with recognized international
aeronautical standards. Such use shall be in accordance with Resolution
417 (Rev.WRC-12). (WRC-12)

5.328A Stations in the radionavigation-satellite service in the band 1 164-1 215 MHz shall
operate in accordance with the provisions of Resolution 609 (Rev.WRC-07) and shall not claim
protection from stations in the aeronautical radionavigation service in the band 960-1 215 MHz.
No. 5.43A does not apply. The provisions of No. 21.18 shall apply. (WRC-07)
38 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.328B The use of the bands 1 164-1 300 MHz, 1 559-1 610 MHz and 5 010-5 030 MHz by
systems and networks in the radionavigation-satellite service for which complete coordination or
notification information, as appropriate, is received by the Radiocommunication Bureau after
1 January 2005 is subject to the application of the provisions of Nos. 9.12, 9.12A and 9.13.
Resolution 610 (WRC-03) shall also apply; however, in the case of radionavigation-satellite
service (space-to-space) networks and systems, Resolution 610 (WRC-03) shall only apply to
transmitting space stations. In accordance with No. 5.329A, for systems and networks in the
radionavigation-satellite service (space-to-space) in the bands 1 215-1 300 MHz and 1 559-
1 610 MHz, the provisions of Nos. 9.7, 9.12, 9.12A and 9.13 shall only apply with respect to
other systems and networks in the radionavigation-satellite service (space-to-space). (WRC-07)
5.329 Use of the radionavigation-satellite service in the band 1 215-1 300 MHz shall be
subject to the condition that no harmful interference is caused to, and no protection is claimed
from, the radionavigation service authorized under No. 5.331. Furthermore, the use of the
radionavigation-satellite service in the band 1 215-1 300 MHz shall be subject to the condition
that no harmful interference is caused to the radiolocation service. No. 5.43 shall not apply in
respect of the radiolocation service. Resolution 608 (WRC-03) shall apply. (WRC-03)
5.329A Use of systems in the radionavigation-satellite service (space-to-space) operating in
the bands 1 215-1 300 MHz and 1 559-1 610 MHz is not intended to provide safety service
applications, and shall not impose any additional constraints on radionavigation-satellite service
(space-to-Earth) systems or on other services operating in accordance with the Table of
Frequency Allocations. (WRC-07)
5.330 Additional allocation: in Angola, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Cameroon,
China, Djibouti, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Guyana, India, Indonesia,
Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, the
Philippines, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Chad, Togo and
Yemen, the band 1 215-1 300 MHz is also allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a
primary basis. (WRC-12)
5.331 Additional allocation: in Algeria, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Austria,
Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Burundi,
Cameroon, China, Korea (Rep. of), Croatia, Denmark, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Estonia,
the Russian Federation, Finland, France, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, Hungary,
India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, The
Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Lesotho, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Montenegro, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, the
Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic, Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea,
Slovakia, the United Kingdom, Serbia, Slovenia, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, South
Africa, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Togo, Turkey, Venezuela and Viet Nam, the band 1 215-
1 300 MHz is also allocated to the radionavigation service on a primary basis. In Canada and the
United States, the band 1 240-1 300 MHz is also allocated to the radionavigation service, and use
of the radionavigation service shall be limited to the aeronautical radionavigation
service. (WRC-12)
5.332 In the band 1 215-1 260 MHz, active spaceborne sensors in the Earth exploration-
satellite and space research services shall not cause harmful interference to, claim protection
from, or otherwise impose constraints on operation or development of the radiolocation service,
the radionavigation-satellite service and other services allocated on a primary basis. (WRC-2000)
5.334 Additional allocation: in Canada and the United States, the band 1 350-1 370 MHz
is also allocated to the aeronautical radionavigation service on a primary basis. (WRC-03)
Chapter 4 39

5.335 In Canada and the United States in the band 1 240-1 300 MHz, active spaceborne
sensors in the earth exploration-satellite and space research services shall not cause interference
to, claim protection from, or otherwise impose constraints on operation or development of the
aeronautical radionavigation service. (WRC-97)
5.335A In the band 1 260-1 300 MHz, active spaceborne sensors in the Earth exploration-
satellite and space research services shall not cause harmful interference to, claim protection
from, or otherwise impose constraints on operation or development of the radiolocation service
and other services allocated by footnotes on a primary basis. (WRC-2000)

2 170-2 520 MHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

2 300-2 450 2 300-2 450
FIXED FIXED
MOBILE 5.384A MOBILE 5.384A
Amateur RADIOLOCATION
Radiolocation Amateur
5.150 5.282 5.395 5.150 5.282 5.393 5.394 5.396

5.384A The bands, or portions of the bands, 1 710-1 885 MHz, 2 300-2 400 MHz and
2 500-2 690 MHz, are identified for use by administrations wishing to implement International
Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) in accordance with Resolution 223 (Rev.WRC-07)*. This
identification does not preclude the use of these bands by any application of the services to
which they are allocated and does not establish priority in the Radio Regulations. (WRC-07)
5.393 Additional allocation: in the United States, India and Mexico, the band
2 310-2 360 MHz is also allocated to the broadcasting-satellite service (sound) and
complementary terrestrial sound broadcasting service on a primary basis. Such use is limited to
digital audio broadcasting and is subject to the provisions of Resolution 528 (WARC-92)*, with
the exception of resolves 3 in regard to the limitation on broadcasting-satellite systems in the
upper 25 MHz. (WRC-2000)
5.394 In the United States, the use of the band 2 300-2 390 MHz by the aeronautical mobile
service for telemetry has priority over other uses by the mobile services. In Canada, the use of
the band 2 300-2 483.5 MHz by the aeronautical mobile service for telemetry has priority over
other uses by the mobile services.
5.395 In France and Turkey, the use of the band 2 310-2 360 MHz by the aeronautical
mobile service for telemetry has priority over other uses by the mobile service. (WRC-03)
5.396 Space stations of the broadcasting-satellite service in the band 2 310-2 360 MHz
operating in accordance with No. 5.393 that may affect the services to which this band is
allocated in other countries shall be coordinated and notified in accordance with Resolution 33
(Rev.WRC-97)*. Complementary terrestrial broadcasting stations shall be subject to bilateral
coordination with neighbouring countries prior to their bringing into use.

*
Note by the Secretariat: This Resolution was revised by WRC-12.
*
Note by the Secretariat: This Resolution was revised by WRC-03.
40 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

2 700-4 800 MHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

3 300-3 400 3 300-3 400 3 300-3 400
RADIOLOCATION RADIOLOCATION RADIOLOCATION
Amateur Amateur
Fixed
Mobile
5.149 5.429 5.430 5.149, 5.149 5.429
3 400-3 600 3 400-3 500 3 400-3 500
FIXED FIXED FIXED
FIXED-SATELLITE FIXED-SATELLITE (space-to- FIXED-SATELLITE (space-to-
(space-to-Earth) Earth) Earth)
Mobile 5.430A Amateur Amateur
Radiolocation Mobile 5.431A Mobile 5.432B
Radiolocation 5.433 Radiolocation 5.433
5.431 5.282 5.282 5.432 5.432A

* Note by the Secretariat: This Resolution was revised by WRC-12.

* Note by the Secretariat: This Resolution was revised by WRC-03.

5.429 Additional allocation: in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam,

Cameroon, China, Congo (Rep. of the), Korea (Rep. of), Côte d'Ivoire, Egypt, the United Arab
Emirates, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic Republic of), Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait,
Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Oman, Uganda, Pakistan, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic, the Dem.
Rep. of the Congo, the Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea and Yemen, the band 3 300-3 400 MHz is
also allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a primary basis. The countries bordering the
Mediterranean shall not claim protection for their fixed and mobile services from the
radiolocation service. (WRC-12)
5.430 Additional allocation: in Azerbaijan, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan,
the band 3 300-3 400 MHz is also allocated to the radionavigation service on a primary
basis. (WRC-12)
5.431 Additional allocation: in Germany, Israel and the United Kingdom, the band
3 400-3 475 MHz is also allocated to the amateur service on a secondary basis. (WRC-03)
5.432 Different category of service: in Korea (Rep. of), Japan and Pakistan, the allocation
of the band 3 400-3 500 MHz to the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service is on a primary
basis (see No. 5.33). (WRC-2000)
5.432A In Korea (Rep. of), Japan and Pakistan, the band 3 400-3 500 MHz is identified for
International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). This identification does not preclude the use of
this band by any application of the services to which it is allocated and does not establish priority
in the Radio Regulations. At the stage of coordination the provisions of Nos. 9.17 and 9.18 also
apply. Before an administration brings into use a (base or mobile) station of the mobile service in
this band it shall ensure that the power flux-density (pfd) produced at 3 m above ground does not
exceed −154.5 dB(W/(m2 ⋅ 4 kHz)) for more than 20% of time at the border of the territory of
any other administration. This limit may be exceeded on the territory of any country whose
administration has so agreed. In order to ensure that the pfd limit at the border of the territory of
any other administration is met, the calculations and verification shall be made, taking into
Chapter 4 41

account all relevant information, with the mutual agreement of both administrations (the
administration responsible for the terrestrial station and the administration responsible for the
earth station), with the assistance of the Bureau if so requested. In case of disagreement, the
calculation and verification of the pfd shall be made by the Bureau, taking into account the
information referred to above. Stations of the mobile service in the band 3 400-3 500 MHz shall
not claim more protection from space stations than that provided in Table 21-4 of the Radio
Regulations (Edition of 2004). (WRC-07)

5.432B Different category of service: in Bangladesh, China, French overseas communities

of Region 3, India, Iran (Islamic Republic of), New Zealand and Singapore, the band
3 400-3 500 MHz is allocated to the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service on a primary
basis, subject to agreement obtained under No. 9.21 with other administrations and is identified
for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT). This identification does not preclude the
use of this band by any application of the services to which it is allocated and does not establish
priority in the Radio Regulations. At the stage of coordination the provisions of Nos. 9.17 and
9.18 also apply. Before an administration brings into use a (base or mobile) station of the mobile
service in this band it shall ensure that the power flux-density (pfd) produced at 3 m above
ground does not exceed −154.5 dB(W/(m2  4 kHz)) for more than 20% of time at the border of
the territory of any other administration. This limit may be exceeded on the territory of any
country whose administration has so agreed. In order to ensure that the pfd limit at the border of
the territory of any other administration is met, the calculations and verification shall be made,
taking into account all relevant information, with the mutual agreement of both administrations
(the administration responsible for the terrestrial station and the administration responsible for
the earth station) with the assistance of the Bureau if so requested. In case of disagreement, the
calculation and verification of the pfd shall be made by the Bureau, taking into account the
information referred to above. Stations of the mobile service in the band 3 400-3 500 MHz shall
not claim more protection from space stations than that provided in Table 21-4 of the Radio
Regulations (Edition of 2004). This allocation is effective from 17 November 2010. (WRC-12)

5.433 In Regions 2 and 3, in the band 3 400-3 600 MHz the radiolocation service is
allocated on a primary basis. However, all administrations operating radiolocation systems in this
band are urged to cease operations by 1985. Thereafter, administrations shall take all practicable
steps to protect the fixed-satellite service and coordination requirements shall not be imposed on
the fixed-satellite service.
42 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5 570-7 250 MHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

5 650-5 725 MOBILE except aeronautical mobile 5.446A 5.450A
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Space research (deep space)
5.282 5.451 5.453 5.454 5.455
5 725-5 830 5 725-5 830
FIXED-SATELLITE RADIOLOCATION
(Earth-to-space) Amateur
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
5.150 5.451 5.453 5.455 5.456 5.150 5.453 5.455
5 830-5 850 5 830-5 850
FIXED-SATELLITE RADIOLOCATION
(Earth-to-space) Amateur
RADIOLOCATION Amateur-satellite (space-to-Earth)
Amateur
Amateur-satellite (space-to-Earth)
5.150 5.451 5.453 5.455 5.456 5.150 5.453 5.455
5 850-5 925 5 850-5 925 5 850-5 925
FIXED FIXED FIXED
FIXED-SATELLITE FIXED-SATELLITE FIXED-SATELLITE
(Earth-to-space) (Earth-to-space) (Earth-to-space)
MOBILE MOBILE MOBILE
Amateur Radiolocation
Radiolocation
5.150 5.150 5.150

5.446A The use of the bands 5 150-5 350 MHz and 5 470-5 725 MHz by the stations in the
mobile, except aeronautical mobile, service shall be in accordance with Resolution 229
(Rev.WRC-12). (WRC-12)

5.450 Additional allocation: in Austria, Azerbaijan, Iran (Islamic Republic of),

Kyrgyzstan, Romania, Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the band 5 470-5 650 MHz is also allocated to
the aeronautical radionavigation service on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

5.450A In the band 5 470-5 725 MHz, stations in the mobile service shall not claim protection
from radiodetermination services. Radiodetermination services shall not impose on the mobile
service more stringent protection criteria, based on system characteristics and interference
criteria, than those stated in Recommendation ITU-R M.1638. (WRC-03)

5.450B In the frequency band 5 470-5 650 MHz, stations in the radiolocation service, except
ground-based radars used for meteorological purposes in the band 5 600-5 650 MHz, shall not
cause harmful interference to, nor claim protection from, radar systems in the maritime
radionavigation service. (WRC-03)
Chapter 4 43

5.451 Additional allocation: in the United Kingdom, the band 5 470-5 850 MHz is also
allocated to the land mobile service on a secondary basis. The power limits specified in
Nos. 21.2, 21.3, 21.4 and 21.5 shall apply in the band 5 725-5 850 MHz.
5.452 Between 5 600 MHz and 5 650 MHz, ground-based radars used for meteorological
purposes are authorized to operate on a basis of equality with stations of the maritime
radionavigation service.
5.453 Additional allocation: in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam,
Cameroon, China, Congo (Rep. of the), Korea (Rep. of), Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, the
United Arab Emirates, Gabon, Guinea, Equatorial Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iran (Islamic
Republic of), Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Madagascar, Malaysia,
Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Uganda, Pakistan, the Philippines, Qatar, the Syrian Arab Republic, the
Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Swaziland, Tanzania, Chad, Thailand,
Togo, Viet Nam and Yemen, the band 5 650-5 850 MHz is also allocated to the fixed and mobile
services on a primary basis. In this case, the provisions of Resolution 229 (Rev.WRC-12) do not
apply. (WRC-12)
5.454 Different category of service: in Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation, Georgia,
Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, the allocation of the band 5 670-5 725 MHz to the
space research service is on a primary basis (see No. 5.33). (WRC-12)
5.455 Additional allocation: in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Cuba, the Russian
Federation, Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan,
Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Ukraine, the band 5 670-5 850 MHz is also allocated to the fixed
service on a primary basis. (WRC-07)
5.456 Additional allocation: in Cameroon, the band 5 755-5 850 MHz is also allocated to
the fixed service on a primary basis. (WRC-03)

10-11.7 GHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
10-10.45 10-10.45 10-10.45
FIXED RADIOLOCATION FIXED
MOBILE Amateur MOBILE
RADIOLOCATION RADIOLOCATION
Amateur Amateur
5.479 5.479 5.480 5.479
10.45-10.5 RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
5.481

5.479 The band 9 975-10 025 MHz is also allocated to the meteorological-satellite service
on a secondary basis for use by weather radars.
5.480 Additional allocation: in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador,
Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Paraguay, , Peru and Uruguay, the band 10-10.45 GHz
is also allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a primary basis. In Venezuela, the band
10-10.45 GHz is also allocated to the fixed service on a primary basis. (WRC-07)
44 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

5.481 Additional allocation: in Germany, Angola, Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Côte d'Ivoire,
El Salvador, Ecuador, Spain, Guatemala, Hungary, Japan, Kenya, Morocco, Nigeria, Oman,
Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Paraguay, Peru, the Dem. People’s Rep. of Korea, Romania, Tanzania,
Thailand and Uruguay, the band 10.45-10.5 GHz is also allocated to the fixed and mobile
services on a primary basis. (WRC-12)

22-24.75 GHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

24-24.05 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
5.150
24.05-24.25 RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Earth exploration-satellite (active)
5.150

40-47.5 GHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
47-47.2 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
Chapter 4 45

66-81 GHz

Allocation to services
Region 1 Region 2 Region 3
76-77.5 RADIO ASTRONOMY
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
Space research (space-to-Earth)
5.149
77.5-78 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
Radio astronomy
Space research (space-to-Earth)
5.149
78-79 RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
Radio astronomy
Space research (space-to-Earth)
5.149 5.560
79-81 RADIO ASTRONOMY
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
Space research (space-to-Earth)
5.149

5.560 In the band 78-79 GHz radars located on space stations may be operated on a primary
basis in the Earth exploration-satellite service and in the space research service.

5.561 In the band 74-76 GHz, stations in the fixed, mobile and broadcasting services shall
not cause harmful interference to stations of the fixed-satellite service or stations of the
broadcasting-satellite service operating in accordance with the decisions of the appropriate
frequency assignment planning conference for the broadcasting-satellite service. (WRC-2000)
46 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

119.98-151.5 GHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

122.25-123 FIXED
INTER-SATELLITE
MOBILE 5.558
Amateur
5.138
134-136 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
Radio astronomy
136-141 RADIO ASTRONOMY
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
5.149

200-248 GHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

241-248 RADIO ASTRONOMY
RADIOLOCATION
Amateur
Amateur-satellite
5.138 5.149
248-250 AMATEUR
AMATEUR-SATELLITE
Radio astronomy
5.149

248-1 000 GHz

Allocation to services

Region 1 Region 2 Region 3

275-1 000 (Not allocated) 5.565
Chapter 4 47

5.565 The following frequency bands in the range 275-1 000 GHz are identified for use by
administrations for passive service applications:

– radio astronomy service: 275-323 GHz, 327-371 GHz, 388-424 GHz, 426-
442 GHz, 453-510 GHz, 623-711 GHz, 795-909 GHz and 926-945 GHz;

– Earth exploration-satellite service (passive) and space research service

(passive):
275-286 GHz, 296-306 GHz, 313-356 GHz, 361-365 GHz, 369-392 GHz,
397-399 GHz, 409-411 GHz, 416-434 GHz, 439-467 GHz, 477-502 GHz,
523-527 GHz, 538-581 GHz, 611-630 GHz, 634-654 GHz, 657-692 GHz,
713-718 GHz, 729-733 GHz, 750-754 GHz, 771-776 GHz, 823-846 GHz,
850-854 GHz, 857-862 GHz, 866-882 GHz, 905-928 GHz, 951-956 GHz,
968-973 GHz and 985-990 GHz.

The use of the range 275-1 000 GHz by the passive services does not preclude use of this range
by active services. Administrations wishing to make frequencies in the 275-1 000 GHz range
available for active service applications are urged to take all practicable steps to protect these
passive services from harmful interference until the date when the Table of Frequency
Allocations is established in the above-mentioned 275-1 000 GHz frequency range.

All frequencies in the range 1 000-3 000 GHz may be used by both active and passive
services. (WRC-12)
48 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

ARTICLE 19

Identification of stations

Section I – General provisions

19.1 §1 All transmissions shall be capable of being identified either by identification

signals or by other means 1.
19.2 §2 1) All transmissions with false or misleading identification are prohibited.
19.3 2) Where practicable and in appropriate services, identification signals
should be automatically transmitted in accordance with relevant ITU-R Recommendations.
19.4 3) All transmissions in the following services should, except as provided in
Nos. 19.13 to 19.15, carry identification signals:
19.5 a) amateur service;
…
19.12 6) When identification signals are transmitted they shall comply with the
provisions of this Article.
…
19.18 §5 Identification signals shall wherever practicable be in one of the following
forms:
19.19 a) speech, using simple amplitude or frequency modulation;
19.20 b) international Morse code transmitted at manual speed;
19.21 c) a telegraph code compatible with conventional printing equipment;
19.22 d) any other form recommended by the Radiocommunication Sector.
19.23 §6 To the extent possible the identification signal should be transmitted in
accordance with relevant ITU-R Recommendations.
…

1
19.1.1 In the present state of the technique, it is recognized nevertheless that the transmission of
identifying signals for certain radio systems (e.g. radiodetermination, radio relay systems and space systems) is not
always possible.
Chapter 4 49

Section III – Formation of call signs

19.45 § 21 1) The twenty-six letters of the alphabet, as well as digits in the cases
specified below, may be used to form call signs. Accented letters are excluded.
19.46 2) However, the following combinations shall not be used as call signs:
19.47 a) combinations which might be confused with distress signals or with other
signals of a similar nature;
19.48 b) combinations in Recommendation ITU-R M.1172 that are reserved for the
abbreviations to be used in the radiocommunication services. (WRC-03)
19.49 (SUP – WRC-03)

19.50 § 22 Call signs in the international series are formed as indicated in Nos. 19.51
to 19.71. The first two characters shall be two letters or a letter followed by a digit or a digit
followed by a letter. The first two characters or in certain cases the first character of a call sign
constitute the nationality identification 4.
…
19.67 Amateur and experimental stations
19.68 § 30 1)
– one character (provided that it is the letter B, F, G, I, K, M, N, R or W) and a
single digit (other than 0 or 1), followed by a group of not more than four
characters, the last of which shall be a letter, or
– two characters and a single digit (other than 0 or 1), followed by a group of
not more than four characters, the last of which shall be a letter. (WRC-03)
19.68A 1A) On special occasions, for temporary use, administrations may
authorize use of call signs with more than the four characters referred to in No. 19.68. (WRC-03)
19.69 2) However, the prohibition of the use of the digits 0 and 1 does not apply to
amateur stations.
…

4
19.50.1 For call sign series beginning with B, F, G, I, K, M, N, R, W and 2, only the first character is
required for nationality identification. In the cases of half series (i.e. when the first two characters are allocated to
more than one Member State), the first three characters are required for nationality identification. (WRC-03)
50 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

ARTICLE 25

Amateur services

Section I – Amateur service

25.1 §1 Radiocommunication between amateur stations of different countries shall be

permitted unless the administration of one of the countries concerned has notified that it objects
to such radiocommunications. (WRC-03)

25.2 §2 1) Transmissions between amateur stations of different countries shall be

limited to communications incidental to the purposes of the amateur service, as defined in
No. 1.56 and to remarks of a personal character. (WRC-03)

25.2A 1A) Transmissions between amateur stations of different countries shall

not be encoded for the purpose of obscuring their meaning, except for control signals exchanged
between earth command stations and space stations in the amateur-satellite service. (WRC-03)

25.3 2) Amateur stations may be used for transmitting international communi-

cations on behalf of third parties only in case of emergencies or disaster relief. An administration
may determine the applicability of this provision to amateur stations under its jurisdiction.

25.4 (SUP – WRC-03)

25.5 §3 1) Administrations shall determine whether or not a person seeking a licence

to operate an amateur station shall demonstrate the ability to send and receive texts in Morse
code signals. (WRC-03)

25.6 2) Administrations shall verify the operational and technical qualifications of

any person wishing to operate an amateur station. Guidance for standards of competence may be
found in the most recent version of Recommendation ITU-R M.1544. (WRC-03)

25.7 §4 The maximum power of amateur stations shall be fixed by the adminis-
trations concerned. (WRC-03)

25.8 §5 1) All pertinent Articles and provisions of the Constitution, the Convention
and of these Regulations shall apply to amateur stations. (WRC-03)

25.9 2) During the course of their transmissions, amateur stations shall transmit
their call sign at short intervals.

25.9A § 5A Administrations are encouraged to take the necessary steps to allow amateur
stations to prepare for and meet communication needs in support of disaster relief. (WRC-03)

25.9B § 5B An administration may determine whether or not to permit a person who has
been granted a licence to operate an amateur station by another administration to operate an
amateur station while that person is temporarily in its territory, subject to such conditions or
restrictions it may impose. (WRC-03)
Chapter 4 51

Section II – Amateur-satellite service

25.10 §6 The provisions of Section I of this Article shall apply equally, as appropriate,
to the amateur-satellite service.
25.11 §7 Administrations authorizing space stations in the amateur-satellite service
shall ensure that sufficient earth command stations are established before launch to ensure that
any harmful interference caused by emissions from a station in the amateur-satellite service can
be terminated immediately (see No. 22.1). (WRC-03)
52 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

APPENDIX 42 (Rev.WRC-12)
Table of allocation of international call sign series
(See Article 19)

Call sign series Allocated to

AAA-ALZ United States of America
AMA-AOZ Spain
APA-ASZ Pakistan (Islamic Republic of)
ATA-AWZ India (Republic of)
AXA-AXZ Australia
AYA-AZZ Argentine Republic
A2A-A2Z Botswana (Republic of)
A3A-A3Z Tonga (Kingdom of)
A4A-A4Z Oman (Sultanate of)
A5A-A5Z Bhutan (Kingdom of)
A6A-A6Z United Arab Emirates
A7A-A7Z Qatar (State of)
A8A-A8Z Liberia (Republic of)
A9A-A9Z Bahrain (Kingdom of)

BAA-BZZ China (People’s Republic of)

CAA-CEZ Chile
CFA-CKZ Canada
CLA-CMZ Cuba
CNA-CNZ Morocco (Kingdom of)
COA-COZ Cuba
CPA-CPZ Bolivia (Republic of)
CQA-CUZ Portugal
CVA-CXZ Uruguay (Eastern Republic of)
CYA-CZZ Canada
C2A-C2Z Nauru (Republic of)
C3A-C3Z Andorra (Principality of)
C4A-C4Z Cyprus (Republic of)
C5A-C5Z Gambia (Republic of the)
C6A-C6Z Bahamas (Commonwealth of the)
*C7A-C7Z World Meteorological Organization
C8A-C9Z Mozambique (Republic of)

DAA-DRZ Germany (Federal Republic of)

DSA-DTZ Korea (Republic of)
DUA-DZZ Philippines (Republic of the)
D2A-D3Z Angola (Republic of)
D4A-D4Z Cape Verde (Republic of)
D5A-D5Z Liberia (Republic of)
D6A-D6Z Comoros (Union of)
D7A-D9Z Korea (Republic of)
Chapter 4 53

Call sign series Allocated to

EAA-EHZ Spain
EIA-EJZ Ireland
EKA-EKZ Armenia (Republic of)
ELA-ELZ Liberia (Republic of)
EMA-EOZ Ukraine
EPA-EQZ Iran (Islamic Republic of)
ERA-ERZ Moldova (Republic of)
ESA-ESZ Estonia (Republic of)
ETA-ETZ Ethiopia (Federal Democratic Republic of)
EUA-EWZ Belarus (Republic of)
EXA-EXZ Kyrgyz Republic
EYA-EYZ Tajikistan (Republic of)
EZA-EZZ Turkmenistan
E2A-E2Z Thailand
E3A-E3Z Eritrea
E4A-E4Z Palestinian Authority1
E5A-E5Z New Zealand – Cook Islands (WRC-07)
E6A-E6Z New Zealand – Niue2
E7A-E7Z Bosnia and Herzegovina (WRC-07)

FAA-FZZ France

GAA-GZZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

HAA-HAZ Hungary (Republic of)

HBA-HBZ Switzerland (Confederation of)
HCA-HDZ Ecuador
HEA-HEZ Switzerland (Confederation of)
HFA-HFZ Poland (Republic of)
HGA-HGZ Hungary (Republic of)
HHA-HHZ Haiti (Republic of)
HIA-HIZ Dominican Republic
HJA-HKZ Colombia (Republic of)
HLA-HLZ Korea (Republic of)
HMA-HMZ Democratic People’s Republic of Korea
HNA-HNZ Iraq (Republic of)
HOA-HPZ Panama (Republic of)
HQA-HRZ Honduras (Republic of)
HSA-HSZ Thailand
HTA-HTZ Nicaragua
HUA-HUZ El Salvador (Republic of)
HVA-HVZ Vatican City State
HWA-HYZ France
HZA-HZZ Saudi Arabia (Kingdom of)
H2A-H2Z Cyprus (Republic of)
H3A-H3Z Panama (Republic of)
H4A-H4Z Solomon Islands
H6A-H7Z Nicaragua
H8A-H9Z Panama (Republic of)

IAA-IZZ Italy
1
In response to Resolution 99 (Rev. Guadalajara 2010) of the Plenipotentiary
Conference. (WRC-12)
2
Added 3rd August 2012 after RR2012 went to print.
54 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Call sign series Allocated to

JAA-JSZ Japan
JTA-JVZ Mongolia
JWA-JXZ Norway
JYA-JYZ Jordan (Hashemite Kingdom of)
JZA-JZZ Indonesia (Republic of)
J2A-J2Z Djibouti (Republic of)
J3A-J3Z Grenada
J4A-J4Z Greece
J5A-J5Z Guinea-Bissau (Republic of)
J6A-J6Z Saint Lucia
J7A-J7Z Dominica (Commonwealth of)
J8A-J8Z Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

KAA-KZZ United States of America

LAA-LNZ Norway
LOA-LWZ Argentine Republic
LXA-LXZ Luxembourg
LYA-LYZ Lithuania (Republic of)
LZA-LZZ Bulgaria (Republic of)
L2A-L9Z Argentine Republic

MAA-MZZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

NAA-NZZ United States of America

OAA-OCZ Peru
ODA-ODZ Lebanon
OEA-OEZ Austria
OFA-OJZ Finland
OKA-OLZ Czech Republic
OMA-OMZ Slovak Republic
ONA-OTZ Belgium
OUA-OZZ Denmark

PAA-PIZ Netherlands (Kingdom of the)

PJA-PJZ Netherlands (Kingdom of the) – Netherlands Antilles
PKA-POZ Indonesia (Republic of)
PPA-PYZ Brazil (Federative Republic of)
PZA-PZZ Suriname (Republic of)
P2A-P2Z Papua New Guinea
P3A-P3Z Cyprus (Republic of)
P4A-P4Z Netherlands (Kingdom of the) – Aruba
P5A-P9Z Democratic People’s Republic of Korea

RAA-RZZ Russian Federation

Chapter 4 55

Call sign series Allocated to

SAA-SMZ Sweden
SNA-SRZ Poland (Republic of)
SSA-SSM Egypt (Arab Republic of)
SSN-STZ Sudan (Republic of the)
SUA-SUZ Egypt (Arab Republic of)
SVA-SZZ Greece
S2A-S3Z Bangladesh (People’s Republic of)
S5A-S5Z Slovenia (Republic of)
S6A-S6Z Singapore (Republic of)
S7A-S7Z Seychelles (Republic of)
S8A-S8Z South Africa (Republic of)
S9A-S9Z Sao Tome and Principe (Democratic Republic of)

TAA-TCZ Turkey
TDA-TDZ Guatemala (Republic of)
TEA-TEZ Costa Rica
TFA-TFZ Iceland
TGA-TGZ Guatemala (Republic of)
THA-THZ France
TIA-TIZ Costa Rica
TJA-TJZ Cameroon (Republic of)
TKA-TKZ France
TLA-TLZ Central African Republic
TMA-TMZ France
TNA-TNZ Congo (Republic of the)
TOA-TQZ France
TRA-TRZ Gabonese Republic
TSA-TSZ Tunisia
TTA-TTZ Chad (Republic of)
TUA-TUZ Côte d'Ivoire (Republic of)
TVA-TXZ France
TYA-TYZ Benin (Republic of)
TZA-TZZ Mali (Republic of)
T2A-T2Z Tuvalu
T3A-T3Z Kiribati (Republic of)
T4A-T4Z Cuba
T5A-T5Z Somali Democratic Republic
T6A-T6Z Afghanistan
T7A-T7Z San Marino (Republic of)
T8A-T8Z Palau (Republic of)

UAA-UIZ Russian Federation

UJA-UMZ Uzbekistan (Republic of)
UNA-UQZ Kazakhstan (Republic of)
URA-UZZ Ukraine
56 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Call sign series Allocated to

VAA-VGZ Canada
VHA-VNZ Australia
VOA-VOZ Canada
VPA-VQZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
VRA-VRZ China (People’s Republic of) – Hong Kong
VSA-VSZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
VTA-VWZ India (Republic of)
VXA-VYZ Canada
VZA-VZZ Australia
V2A-V2Z Antigua and Barbuda
V3A-V3Z Belize
V4A-V4Z Saint Kitts and Nevis (Federation of)
V5A-V5Z Namibia (Republic of)
V6A-V6Z Micronesia (Federated States of)
V7A-V7Z Marshall Islands (Republic of the)
V8A-V8Z Brunei Darussalam

WAA-WZZ United States of America

XAA-XIZ Mexico
XJA-XOZ Canada
XPA-XPZ Denmark
XQA-XRZ Chile
XSA-XSZ China (People’s Republic of)
XTA-XTZ Burkina Faso
XUA-XUZ Cambodia (Kingdom of)
XVA-XVZ Viet Nam (Socialist Republic of)
XWA-XWZ Lao People’s Democratic Republic
XXA-XXZ China (People’s Republic of) – Macao (WRC-07)
XYA-XZZ Myanmar (Union of)

YAA-YAZ Afghanistan
YBA-YHZ Indonesia (Republic of)
YIA-YIZ Iraq (Republic of)
YJA-YJZ Vanuatu (Republic of)
YKA-YKZ Syrian Arab Republic
YLA-YLZ Latvia (Republic of)
YMA-YMZ Turkey
YNA-YNZ Nicaragua
YOA-YRZ Romania
YSA-YSZ El Salvador (Republic of)
YTA-YUZ Serbia (Republic of) (WRC-07)
YVA-YYZ Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
Y2A-Y9Z Germany (Federal Republic of)

ZAA-ZAZ Albania (Republic of)

ZBA-ZJZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
ZKA-ZMZ New Zealand
ZNA-ZOZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
ZPA-ZPZ Paraguay (Republic of)
Chapter 4 57

Call sign series Allocated to

ZQA-ZQZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
ZRA-ZUZ South Africa (Republic of)
ZVA-ZZZ Brazil (Federative Republic of)
Z2A-Z2Z Zimbabwe (Republic of)
Z3A-Z3Z The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Z8A-Z8Z South Sudan (Republic of)3
3
Added immediately after RR2012 went to print

2AA-2ZZ United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

3AA-3AZ Monaco (Principality of)

3BA-3BZ Mauritius (Republic of)
3CA-3CZ Equatorial Guinea (Republic of)
3DA-3DM Swaziland (Kingdom of)
3DN-3DZ Fiji (Republic of)
3EA-3FZ Panama (Republic of)
3GA-3GZ Chile
3HA-3UZ China (People’s Republic of)
3VA-3VZ Tunisia
3WA-3WZ Viet Nam (Socialist Republic of)
3XA-3XZ Guinea (Republic of)
3YA-3YZ Norway
3ZA-3ZZ Poland (Republic of)

4AA-4CZ Mexico
4DA-4IZ Philippines (Republic of the)
4JA-4KZ Azerbaijani Republic
4LA-4LZ Georgia
4MA-4MZ Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
4OA-4OZ Montenegro (WRC-07)
4PA-4SZ Sri Lanka (Democratic Socialist Republic of)
4TA-4TZ Peru
*4UA-4UZ United Nations
4VA-4VZ Haiti (Republic of)
4WA-4WZ Timor-Leste (Democratic Republic of) (WRC-03)
4XA-4XZ Israel (State of)
*4YA-4YZ International Civil Aviation Organization
4ZA-4ZZ Israel (State of)

5AA-5AZ Libya
5BA-5BZ Cyprus (Republic of)
5CA-5GZ Morocco (Kingdom of)
5HA-5IZ Tanzania (United Republic of)
5JA-5KZ Colombia (Republic of)
5LA-5MZ Liberia (Republic of)
5NA-5OZ Nigeria (Federal Republic of)
5PA-5QZ Denmark
5RA-5SZ Madagascar (Republic of)
5TA-5TZ Mauritania (Islamic Republic of)
5UA-5UZ Niger (Republic of the)
5VA-5VZ Togolese Republic
5WA-5WZ Samoa (Independent State of)
5XA-5XZ Uganda (Republic of)
5YA-5ZZ Kenya (Republic of)
58 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

Call sign series Allocated to

6AA-6BZ Egypt (Arab Republic of)
6CA-6CZ Syrian Arab Republic
6DA-6JZ Mexico
6KA-6NZ Korea (Republic of)
6OA-6OZ Somali Democratic Republic
6PA-6SZ Pakistan (Islamic Republic of)
6TA-6UZ Sudan (Republic of the)
6VA-6WZ Senegal (Republic of)
6XA-6XZ Madagascar (Republic of)
6YA-6YZ Jamaica
6ZA-6ZZ Liberia (Republic of)

7AA-7IZ Indonesia (Republic of)

7JA-7NZ Japan
7OA-7OZ Yemen (Republic of)
7PA-7PZ Lesotho (Kingdom of)
7QA-7QZ Malawi
7RA-7RZ Algeria (People’s Democratic Republic of)
7SA-7SZ Sweden
7TA-7YZ Algeria (People’s Democratic Republic of)
7ZA-7ZZ Saudi Arabia (Kingdom of)

8AA-8IZ Indonesia (Republic of)

8JA-8NZ Japan
8OA-8OZ Botswana (Republic of)
8PA-8PZ Barbados
8QA-8QZ Maldives (Republic of)
8RA-8RZ Guyana
8SA-8SZ Sweden
8TA-8YZ India (Republic of)
8ZA-8ZZ Saudi Arabia (Kingdom of)

9AA-9AZ Croatia (Republic of)

9BA-9DZ Iran (Islamic Republic of)
9EA-9FZ Ethiopia (Federal Democratic Republic of)
9GA-9GZ Ghana
9HA-9HZ Malta
9IA-9JZ Zambia (Republic of)
9KA-9KZ Kuwait (State of)
9LA-9LZ Sierra Leone
9MA-9MZ Malaysia
9NA-9NZ Nepal (Federal Democratic Republic of)
9OA-9TZ Democratic Republic of the Congo
9UA-9UZ Burundi (Republic of)
9VA-9VZ Singapore (Republic of)
9WA-9WZ Malaysia
9XA-9XZ Rwanda (Republic of)
9YA-9ZZ Trinidad and Tobago
* Series allocated to an international organization.
Chapter 4 59

RESOLUTION 641 (Rev.HFBC-87)

Use of the frequency band 7 000-7 100 kHz

The World Administrative Radio Conference for the Planning of the HF Bands Allocated to the
Broadcasting Service (Geneva, 1987),

considering

a) that the sharing of frequency bands by the amateur and broadcasting services is
undesirable and should be avoided;

b) that it is desirable to have world-wide exclusive allocations for these services in

band 7;

c) that the band 7 000-7 100 kHz is allocated on a world-wide basis exclusively to the
amateur service,

resolves

that the broadcasting service shall be prohibited in the band 7 000-7 100 kHz and that the
broadcasting stations operating on frequencies in this band shall cease such operation,

urges

the administrations responsible for the broadcasting stations operating on frequencies in the band
7 000-7 100 kHz to take the necessary steps to ensure that such operation ceases immediately,

instructs the Secretary-General

to bring this Resolution to the attention of administrations.

60 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

RESOLUTION 642

Relating to the bringing into use of earth stations in

the amateur-satellite service

The World Administrative Radio Conference (Geneva, 1979),

recognizing
that the procedures of Articles 9 and 11 are applicable to the amateur-satellite service,

recognizing further
a) that the characteristics of earth stations in the amateur-satellite service vary widely;

b) that space stations in the amateur-satellite service are intended for multiple access by
amateur earth stations in all countries;
c) that coordination among stations in the amateur and amateur-satellite services is
accomplished without the need for formal procedures;

d) that the burden of terminating any harmful interference is placed upon the
administration authorizing a space station in the amateur-satellite service pursuant to the
provisions of No. 25.11,

notes
that certain information specified in Appendix 4 cannot reasonably be provided for earth stations
in the amateur-satellite service,

resolves
1 that when an administration (or one acting on behalf of a group of named
administrations) intends to establish a satellite system in the amateur-satellite service and wishes
to publish information with respect to earth stations in that system it may:
1.1 communicate to the Radiocommunication Bureau all or part of the information listed
in Appendix 4; the Bureau shall publish such information in a Special Section of its BR IFIC
requesting comments to be communicated within a period of four months after the date of
publication;
1.2 notify under Nos. 11.2 to 11.8 all or part of the information listed in Appendix 4; the
Bureau shall record it in a special list;

2 that this information shall include at least the characteristics of a typical amateur
earth station in the amateur-satellite service having the facility to transmit signals to the space
station to initiate, modify, or terminate the functions of the space station.
Chapter 4 61

RESOLUTION 644 (Rev.WRC-12)

Radiocommunication resources for early warning, disaster
mitigation and relief operations

The World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2012),

considering
a) that administrations have been urged to take all practical steps to facilitate the rapid
deployment and effective use of telecommunication resources for early warning, disaster
mitigation and disaster relief operations by reducing and, where possible, removing regulatory
barriers and strengthening global, regional and transborder cooperation between States;
b) that modern telecommunication technologies are an essential tool for disaster
mitigation and relief operations and the vital role of telecommunications and ICT for the safety
and security of relief workers in the field;
c) the particular needs of developing countries and the special requirements of the
inhabitants living in high risk areas exposed to disasters, as well as those living in remote areas;
d) the work carried out by the Telecommunication Standardization Sector in
standardizing the common alerting protocol (CAP), through the approval of the relevant CAP
Recommendation;
e) that, under the Strategic Plan of the Union 2012-2015, “the need for effective use of
telecommunications/ICTs and modern technologies during critical emergencies, as a crucial part
of disaster prediction, detection, early-warning, mitigation, management and relief strategies”
is considered a priority for ITU in this period;
f) that the majority of terrestrial networks in affected areas were damaged during recent
disasters,
recognizing
a) Article 40 of the Constitution, on priority of telecommunications concerning safety
of life;
b) Article 46 of the Constitution, on distress calls and messages;
c) No. 91 of the Tunis Agenda for the Information Society adopted by the second phase
of the World Summit on the Information Society and in particular provision c): “Working
expeditiously towards the establishment of standards-based monitoring and worldwide
early-warning systems linked to national and regional networks and facilitating emergency
disaster response all over the world, particularly in high-risk regions”;
d) Resolution 34 (Rev. Hyderabad, 2010) of the World Telecommunication
Development Conference, on the role of telecommunications/information and communication
technologies in disaster preparedness, early warning, rescue, mitigation, relief and response, as
well as ITU-D Question 22-1/2 “Utilization of telecommunications/ICT for disaster
preparedness, mitigation and response”;
e) Resolution 36 (Rev. Guadalajara, 2010) of the Plenipotentiary Conference, on
telecommunications/information and communication technology in the service of humanitarian
assistance;
62 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

f) Resolution 136 (Rev. Guadalajara, 2010) of the Plenipotentiary Conference, on the

use of telecommunications/information and communication technologies for monitoring and
management in emergency and disaster situations for early warning, prevention, mitigation and
relief;
g) Resolution ITU-R 53, on the use of radiocommunications in disaster response and
relief;
h) Resolution ITU-R 55, on the ITU-R studies of disaster prediction, detection,
mitigation and relief,

noting
the close relation of this Resolution with Resolution 646 (Rev.WRC-12), on public protection
and disaster relief, and Resolution 647 (Rev.WRC-12), on spectrum management guidelines for
emergency and disaster relief radiocommunication, and the need to coordinate activities under
these Resolutions in order to prevent any possible overlap,

resolves
1 that the ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) continue to study, as a matter of
urgency, those aspects of radiocommunications/ICT that are relevant to early warning, disaster
mitigation and relief operations, such as decentralized means of telecommunications that are
appropriate and generally available, including amateur terrestrial and satellite radio facilities,
mobile and portable satellite terminals, as well as the use of passive space-based sensing
systems;
2 to urge the ITU-R Study Groups, taking into account the scope of ongoing
studies/activities appended to Resolution ITU-R 55, to accelerate their work, particularly in the
areas of disaster prediction, detection, mitigation and relief,

instructs the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau

1 to support administrations in their work towards the implementation of both
Resolutions 36 (Rev.Guadalajara, 2010) and 136 (Rev.Guadalajara, 2010), as well as the
Tampere Convention;
2 to collaborate, as appropriate, with the United Nations Working Group on
Emergency Telecommunications (WGET);
3 to participate in, and contribute to, the Telecommunications for Disaster Relief and
Mitigation − Partnership Coordination Panel (PCP-TDR);
4 to synchronize activities between this Resolution, Resolution 646 (Rev.WRC-12)
and Resolution 647 (Rev.WRC-12) to prevent a possible overlap.
Chapter 5 63

CHAPTER 5

ITU-R QUESTIONS RELEVANT TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES

QUESTION ITU-R 48-6/5

Techniques and frequency usage in the amateur service
and amateur-satellite service
(1978-1982-1990-1993-1998-2003-2007)

http://www.itu.int/pub/R-QUE-SG05.48

QUESTION ITU-R 209-4/5

Use of the mobile, amateur and amateur satellite services
in support of disaster radiocommunications
(1995-1998-2006-2007-2012)

http://www.itu.int/pub/R-QUE-SG05.209
Chapter 6 65

CHAPTER 6

ITU-R RECOMMENDATIONS RELEVANT

TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1041-2

Future amateur radio systems
(Question ITU-R 48/8)
(1994-1998-2003)
Scope
This Recommendation provides the design objectives and characteristics that should be taken into account
when developing future systems in the amateur and amateur-satellite services. It includes general,
technical and operational considerations.
http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1041/en

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1042-3

Disaster communications in the amateur
and amateur-satellite services
(Question ITU-R 48/8)
(1994-1998-2003-2007)

Scope
This Recommendation provides guidance on the development of amateur and amateur-satellite service
networks supporting preparedness and radiocommunications during disaster and relief operations.
http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1042/en
66 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1043-2

Use of the amateur and amateur-satellite services
in developing countries
(Question ITU-R 48/8)
(1994-1998-2003)
Scope
This Recommendation encourages administrations to facilitate the amateur and amateur-satellite services
to include developing operator skills, training of technicians, and deployment of amateur stations in rural
areas and in emergency situations. It encourages the use of volunteers and to accommodate the particular
needs of developing countries.
http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1043/en

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1044-2

Frequency sharing criteria in the amateur and
amateur-satellite services
(Question ITU-R 48/8)
(1994-1998-2003)
Scope
This Recommendation lists the radiocommunication services with which the amateur and
amateur-satellite services may readily share, and those services with which sharing would be difficult. It
states that the amateur services operate with relatively weak signals and provides mitigation procedures
that facilitate sharing.
http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1044/en

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1172

Miscellaneous abbreviations and signals to be used
for radiocommunications in the maritime mobile service
(1995)
http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1172/en
Chapter 6 67

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1544

Minimum qualifications of radio amateurs

(Question ITU-R 48/8)

(2001)

Scope

This Recommendation defines minimum levels of operational and technical knowledge for use
by administrations when verifying the qualifications of a person wishing to operate a station in
the amateur services.

http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1544/en

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1677-1

International Morse code

(2004-2009)

Scope

This Recommendation confirms the International Morse code characters and the operational
provisions applying to their use in radiocommunication services.

http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1677/en

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.1732-1

Characteristics of systems operating in the amateur and

amateur-satellite services for use in sharing studies
(Question ITU-R 48-6/5)

(2005-2012)

Scope

This Recommendation documents the technical and operational characteristics of systems used in the
amateur service and amateur-satellite services for the purposes of carrying out sharing studies. The
systems and their characteristics described in this Recommendation are considered representative of those
operating in the frequency bands available to these services ranging from 135.7 kHz through 81.5 GHz.

http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.1732/en
68 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

RECOMMENDATION ITU-R M.2034

Telegraphic alphabet for data communication by phase shift keying

at 31 Bd in the amateur and amateur-satellite services

(Question ITU-R 48-6/5)

(2013)

Scope

This Recommendation establishes a telegraphic alphabet and transmission protocols for phase shift
keying at 31 Bd in the amateur and amateur-satellite services.

http://www.itu.int/rec/R-REC-M.2034/en
Chapter 7 69

CHAPTER 7

ITU-R REPORTS RELEVANT TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES

REPORT ITU-R M.2085-1

Role of the amateur and amateur-satellite services in support
of disaster mitigation and relief
(Question ITU-R 209-3/5)
(2006-2011)
http://www.itu.int/pub/R-REP-M.2085

REPORT ITU-R M.2117-1

Software-defined radio in the land mobile, amateur
and amateur-satellite services
(2012)
http://www.itu.int/pub/R-REP-M.2117

REPORT ITU-R M.2200

Characteristics of amateur radio stations in the range
415-526.5 kHz for sharing studies
(2010)
http://www.itu.int/pub/R-REP-M.2200
70 Amateur and amateur-satellite services

REPORT ITU-R M.2203

Compatibility of amateur service stations with existing services
in the range 415-526.5 kHz
(2010)
http://www.itu.int/pub/R-REP-M.2203

REPORT ITU-R M.2226

Description of amateur and experimental operation between
415 and 526.5 kHz in some countries
(Question ITU-R 48-6/5)
(2011)
http://www.itu.int/pub/R-REP-M.2203
Chapter 8 71

CHAPTER 8

ITU-D RECOMMENDATIONS AND HANDBOOKS RELEVANT

TO THE AMATEUR SERVICES

ITU-D Recommendations http://www.itu.int/rec/D-REC-D/e

ITU-D Handbooks http://www.itu.int/pub/D-HDB

 ISBN 978-92-61-14661-0 SAP id

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