DISH Wraps Spectrum Buy, Waits For FCC OK

Despite the fact it has not secured FCC clearance to launch its proposed nationwide Long Term Evolution (LTE) terrestrial broadband network, DISH Network Corporation signed off on its purchase of the reorganized DBSD North America Inc., and substantially all of the assets of TerreStar Networks Inc.

DISH says it’s invested more than $3 billion for this 40 megahertz of nationwide 2 GHz wireless spectrum.

“DISH looks forward to working with the FCC on its forthcoming Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) and remains committed to using this spectrum to help the Administration and the FCC solve the nation’s spectrum crunch,” the operator says. “In parallel, DISH will initiate efforts to enhance the performance and capabilities of handsets that utilize the terrestrial and satellite links while exploring its options for a broader market entry.”

The FCC says its review of DISH’s waiver request probably will take most of this year, and its decision for the lengthy process may have been impacted by the problems found with LightSquared’s nationwide proposition (click here for more information).

Like other operators, DISH is looking for ways to branch out from its core offerings, and wireless broadband is the service du jour. And, unlike reports that LightSquared is not focused on developing an integrated satellite/terrestrial handset, DISH wants to explore handsets that can use its newly acquired frequencies. DISH also could stream its own content via its Blockbuster library.