Proximus Inks Deal with NRB to Acquire Additional 5G Spectrum

Belgian operator Proximus announced that it has signed an agreement with Belgian IT services company NRB to acquire an additional 20 MHz of 5G spectrum in the 3600 MHz band. NRB is selling its 5G license to refocus on its core business while maintaining its commitment to offer 5G services, Proximus said on Thursday. Both companies are currently discussing a possible wholesale agreement.

• Make Telecom Talk My Trusted Source
• 
• 

Also Read: Proximus NXT and RTBF Pilot Live Broadcast With Private 5G Network

Spectrum Acquisition and Expansion

Proximus said when the spectrum was auctioned in the summer of 2022, it planned to invest EUR 600 million over a period of 20 years. At the same auction, NRB obtained a portion of the 5G spectrum with plans to serve various sectors.

Now, two years later, NRB has decided to sell its spectrum and 5G license. The Belgian company no longer wishes to roll out its own mobile network but aims to continue offering 5G services to its customers as a mobile virtual network operator through a possible partnership with Proximus. Negotiations for a partnership with Proximus are ongoing, the official release said.

For Proximus, the acquisition of additional 5G spectrum will further enhance the mobile experience it offers its customers. Acquiring an additional 20 MHz in the 3600 MHz band, giving Proximus a total of 120 MHz, will enable Proximus to add more capacity when needed.

Regulatory Approval and Future Plans

Reportedly, the federal telecommunications regulator BIPT has approved the agreement between Proximus and NRB, subject to the effective transfer of rights taking place after the publication of a new call for applications for the 3410-3430 MHz band in the Belgian Official Journal.