PRESS RELEASE: CTU opens 26 GHz band for modern wireless networks and makes available information on spectrum usage
Prague, 27 May 2026 – The Czech Telecommunication Office is launching a new phase of the use of high-frequency radio spectrum in the 26 GHz band. This band will be opened from 1. 7. 2026 for the operation of modern wireless networks, in particular 5G networks, fixed wireless access networks (FWA) and local or industrial networks designed, for example, for production sites, logistics centres or technology campuses. At the same time as the 26 GHz band was opened, CTU made available information on the use of radio frequencies in this band.
The 26 GHz band allows data transmission at very high speeds and is particularly suitable for the deployment of high capacity networks. Typical uses are densely populated urban areas, industrial zones, logistics sites or large buildings, where the emphasis is on reliable and fast wireless communication.
Support for 5G, FWA and industrial applications
The newly set conditions allow the use of the 26 GHz band for different types of networks according to their nature and purpose. In addition to public and private 5G mobile networks, there is also space for FWA networks that can supplement or replace wired internet connections, especially in locations where the construction of fibre infrastructure is technically difficult, time-consuming or economically disadvantageous. The band can help with the expansion of high-speed Internet even to places where it is not easy to bring fibre connection. Other important opportunities are opening up for local and campus networks, for example in industry, transport or logistics. Modern private networks can support production automation, autonomous systems or other applications associated with the concept of Industry 4.0. It is the high capacity and low latency of the 26 GHz band that create space for the emergence and development of new technological solutions.
It is also the largest part of the radio spectrum ever released by CTU for new use on the basis of individual authorisations. The established conditions, which take into account both European harmonization and the specific characteristics of the Czech market, are intended to enable the effective and flexible use of the band not only by major operators, but also by smaller market players and entities developing local projects and private networks. The Office has already received preliminary expressions of interest from both larger and smaller players, including specific projects currently in development.
Greater transparency through the availability of information on spectrum use
At the same time as the 26 GHz band was opened, CTU made available information on the use of radio frequencies in this band. Specifically, this concerns information on individual authorizations in sections where conditions are set for FWA and 5G networks. For the first time in history, more comprehensive information on the use of spectrum in such a range will be available to interested parties. This step is intended to contribute to greater market transparency and better predictability for business.
The available information will enable those interested in new networks to better plan their projects, take into account existing frequency usage, prevent mutual interference and speed up the coordination process. It can also be used for self-regulation in areas where different networks partially overlap and where it may be mutually beneficial to adjust certain technical parameters to reduce interference. The disclosure takes place to the extent stipulated by the Electronic Communications Act and has been designed so as not to compromise network security, but at the same time to contribute to the efficient management and economical use of radio spectrum.
Tereza Meravá
Spokesperson