Chairman Pai's Response to Senator Kennedy Regarding the C-Band

On May 5, Sen John Kennedy (R-LA) wrote to Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai about the C-band auction, urging the FCC to institute a "Buy American" request to all satellite operators. On June 15, Chairman Pai wrote that the five eligible space station operators are required to file their Transition Plans for FCC review by June 19. These plans should provide detailed information on the specific aspects of the planned transitions for each operator, including plans to manufacture, procure, and launch new satellites. The FCC will provide an opportunity for public comment before the Transition Plans are finalized. We have encouraged eligible space station operators to purchase satellites built in the United States.