Brazil expands its first-responder LTE trial in preparation for World Cup

Both Santos Guerra and Cunha noted that the Brazilian regulator Anatel is expected to conduct a 700 MHz auction later this year that would dedicate 700 MHz spectrum to both commercial wireless operators and first responders for LTE systems, although it may take some time to clear the band of incumbent licensees.

Today, Brazil’s first-responder communications may be a step behind the sophisticated systems found in highly developed countries, but that may not be the case much longer, Cunha said. This LTE trial is just one indication that Brazil’s leadership appears to be eager to invest the resources necessary to protect the country’s critical infrastructure, particularly as it plays host to large events such as this year’s World Cup and the 2016 Olympics, he said.

“If you use a technology like LTE, you can leapfrog those countries—and Brazil’s within range of these countries—to really have a world-class system,” Cunha said. “So, we believe that this trial is not only helping set up the regulation process inside the country— for example, dedicated spectrum for only public safety, critical infrastructure and defense—as well given the experience for a new doctrine around how to operate with the new technology. So, that’s the leapfrog movement we’re experiencing today in the country.”