60 meter band

International regulatory status

The amateur radio service is unusual in the fact that it is regulated by international treaty. Worldwide amateur allocations are determined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which allocates global radio spectrum and satellite orbits, develops the technical standards that ensure networks and technologies seamlessly interconnect and strive to improve access to ICTs to underserved communities worldwide. This is done through successive World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs) which take place approximately every 3 – 5 years, when telecommunications administrations and organisations from all around the globe meet to make decisions on these elements.

At the conclusion of the ITU 2012 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-12) on Friday 17 February 2012, Resolution 649 [COM6/12] (WRC12) was ratified as being placed on the Agenda for the following WRC in 2015 (WRC-15). This resolution invited WRC-15 to consider "The possibility of making an allocation of an appropriate amount of spectrum, not necessarily contiguous, to the amateur service on a secondary basis within the band 5250-5450 kHz". The full official ITU text can be found at: http://www.itu.int/dms_pub/itu-r/oth/0c/0a/R0C0A00000A0018PDFE.pdf

Following the decision at WRC-12 to implement a Radiolocation allocation from 5250 to 5275 kHz, the candidate band for an amateur allocation at WRC-15 subsequently became truncated to the 5275 to 5450 kHz sector.

On September 11, 2014, the National Telecommunications Agency of Brazil (Anatel) announced its intention to propose an amateur service allocation from 5275 to 5450 kHz in the 60m band at the next meeting of CITEL (Inter-American Telecommunication Commission). At the CITEL Regional Conference held in Mérida City, Mexico in October 2014, the conference recognised an IAP ( Inter-American Proposal ) for a Secondary Amateur Allocation from 5275 to 5450 kHz. This was proposed by Brazil, together with Argentina, Uruguay, El Salvador, Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, making up the required six administrations. Following the proposal a footnote stressed that "National administrations can adopt additional constrains to provide further compatibility with existed services".

The final meeting of the CEPT (Conférence Européenne des Postes et Télécommunications) Conference Preparatory Group took place in Bergen, Norway during the week 14–18 September 2015 at which was adopted the final European Common Proposal for WRC-15 Agenda Item 1.4 - the adoption of a European Common Proposal for an allocation of 100 kHz between 5350 – 5450 kHz for the Amateur Service.

The ITU 2015 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-15) took place in Geneva, Switzerland from 2 until 27 November 2015, where Agenda Item 1.4 went through a significant amount of discussion and debate until a consensus was eventually reached, whereby at the Concluding Meeting of WRC-15 on 27 November 2015 a Final Act was signed, approving a secondary amateur allocation of 5351.5–5366.5 kHz. Most stations are limited to 15 Watts EIRP, with the exception of Mexico, who are allowed 20W EIRP and Central & South America, plus most of the Caribbean areas who are permitted 25W EIRP. (see adjoining WRC-15 regulations extract for full country information). The allocation will go into effect from January 1, 2017.

Bandplan

An interim bandplan was adopted by IARU Region 1 in April 2016, for the WRC-15 allocation (5351.5 - 5366.5 kHz). The same bandplan was adopted by IARU Region 2 in October 2016.

The bandplan strongly recommends that the WRC-15 frequencies should only be used if other 5 MHz frequencies, allocated under Article 4.4, are not available.

It does not require stations to adopt the USB dial frequencies of 5354, 5357, 5360 and 5363 kHz but these frequencies provide a good fit with the American channel on 5357 kHz, and UK stations which can use 5354 and 5363 kHz (but not the middle two). Also, it is only by using these exact frequencies that there will be enough room for four simultaneous SSB conversations without mutual interference, assuming the 2.8 kHz de facto standard bandwidth of typical SSB transceivers.

WRC-15 frequencies, like all others, can only be used when they have been licensed for amateur use by a country's regulator.

Propagation characteristics

Lying approximately halfway between 80m (3.5 MHz) and 40m (7 MHz), the 60 meter (5 MHz) band forms a communication bridge when propagation effects make use of 80 or 40m impossible for local-to-medium distance communications – often needed in emergency communication scenarios where there is no existing normal communications infrastructure or it is devastated. Less affected by D-Layer absorption than 80m, the 60 meter (5 MHz) band is an ideal candidate for Near Vertical Incidence Skywave (NVIS), the most commonly used technique capable of providing seamless local-to-medium distance HF communications. Information about the Critical Frequency (foF2) of the Ionosphere at any one time is highly important for setting up and maintaining reliable NVIS radio links. This information can be found online from Ionograms produced by local ionosondes at this site

Propagation beacons

A number of amateur radio propagation beacons are active on 5 MHz, some of which produce a sequence of varying power levels in various transmission formats. A number of these transmit 24/7 (but not all) and some personal beacons are activated as required.

In the United Kingdom ( ITU Region 1 ) originally three beacons transmitted sequentially on the hour and each subsequent 15 minutes primarily using CW, the 5290 kHz frequency being utilized for the UK's beacon project. Call signs being, in transmission order - GB3RAL (IO91in) + 0 minutes, GB3WES (IO84qn) + 1 minute and GB3ORK (IO89ja) + 2 minutes from approximately southern, central and northern locations in the UK. As of June 2016, GB3RAL and GB3ORK are off-air leaving only GB3WES active. Discussions are taking place during 2016 as to the future of the UK 5 MHz beacon system owing to the fact that its 5 MHz beacon licences are due to expire in 2017. Details of the original British beacon network can be found on the 5 MHz beacon page of the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) website plus G4JNT's article on the design and building of the 5 MHz GB3RAL, GB3WES & GB3ORK beacons

On the 5290 kHz channel (5289.5 kHz / USB) also is the Danish ( ITU Region 1 ) personal beacon OV1BCN (JO55si), operated by OZ1FJB, particularly for NVIS observations. From Spring 2011, it has been in operation h24 and is sequenced to transmit 2 minutes after the UK beacons, (hr+ 04/19/34/49 min.), transmitting a USB-announcement, followed by CW + MT63 identifications. (Info: Lars, OZ1FJB)

The South African Amateur Radio League - SARL - ( ITU Region 1 ) announced its intention to have a 5 MHz Beacon operational. In response to this, the South African club KARTS (Kempton Park Amateur Radio and Technical Society) commissioned a WSPR beacon callsign ZS6KTS (KG43cw), initially on 5250 kHz. At a meeting during Summer 2014 with their regulator, ICASA (The Independent Communications Authority of South Africa), SARL reached an agreement to exchange their channel at 5250 kHz for the more common beacon channel of 5290 kHz. ZS6KTS and the other stations in the South African 5 MHz WSPR Cluster - currently ZS6SRL (KG33wv) and ZS1TB (JF96hb) - changed frequency on 4 October 2014. The beacon is transmitting 5 Watts and repeats every 6-12 mins. This is to assist SARL with their propagation studies and is in response to requests from other clubs and international researchers. Their other channel at 5260 kHz remains in use as normal for general contacts.

The 60m band has been released for amateur radio in Switzerland ( ITU Region 1 ) in January 2017, however the Sursee Amateur Radio Club obtained earlier the necessary official authorizations from their Federal Office of Communications for a Swiss 5 MHz Experimental Beacon project. Using the callsign HB9AW, the beacon became operational on 5291.0 kHz at 0000hrs on 1 June 2014. The transmission commences with the call sign HB9AW in CW (100HA1B), followed by five 2 seconds-long dashes. The dashes are each accurately attenuated by 10 dB in the EIRP power sequence 10W / 5 W / 1Watt / 100 mW concluding with 10 mW and currently repeats every 5 minutes, commencing on the hour. The beacon transmits from Sursee (Locator: JN43ba) using a half-wave dipole, configured for high-angle radiation as an NVIS ‘fountain’ type antenna at a height above ground of 0.12 of a wavelength. A reflector is placed beneath the antenna. The aim of the system is to explore the propagation conditions on 5 MHz in the hills and valleys of Switzerland in relation to its possible suitability as an Emergency Communications band. An on-line form on the Sursee Amateur Radio Club’s website accepts reception reports.

MRASZ, the Hungarian national amateur radio society ( ITU Region 1 ), has established a continuous CW beacon on 5352.5 kHz. Located at Ráckeve (JN97le), it runs 50W and operates under the callsign HG7BHB.

The Radio Amateur Association of Greece - RAAG - ( ITU Region 1 ) had set up a beacon on 5398.5 kHz under the Society's club callsign, SZ1SV (KM17ux). It transmitted in carrier, CW and PSK31 formats in graded power levels between 3 and 30 Watts on a timed basis at 00, 15, 30 and 45 minutes past the hour. Time of operation was mostly between 1900 - 0600 UTC, however some days it was off due to other HF activities at the test site, or of course when the station was engaged in a 5 MHz contact with other stations outside of Greece . Further details are available from the RAAG website. As of May 2015, their temporary 5 MHz licence has expired and therefore the beacon is off air. Further news is awaited (Source: SV1XV ).

In addition, individual WSPR beacon experiments using powers as low as 1 watt in the UK have led to reception reports from the USA and Middle East. South African tests using 5-20 watts have led to reception reports from USA, Europe, Australia and South America. Further research is likely in this area..

The Luxembourg ( ITU Region 1 ) national amateur radio society, Radioamateurs du Luxembourg, has re-established a beacon on 5205.25 kHz under the callsign LX0HF. Located near Eschdorf (JN39xv), the beacon's power is 5W EIRP, transmitting a continuous carrier with callsign identification at one minute intervals.

The German ( ITU Region 1 ) Amateur Radio Club (DARC) operates a propagation information beacon, under the non-amateur call sign DRA5 (JO44vq), on 5195 kHz, which transmits in CW (Morse code) plus various digital modulation systems. It is co-sited with the DKØWCY 30 and 80m beacons. Owing to considerations of the rising cost of electrical power, the operational schedule of DRA5 has changed and it no longer transmits over the full 24-hour period. It is currently operational from 0400 - 2200 UTC during the Summertime period and 0500 - 2300 UTC during the Wintertime period. These times of year correspond to those of the seasonal clock changes in Germany..(Source: Beacon keeper DK4VW e-mail 18th July 2013)

As well as amateur radio beacons in the 5 MHz sector, some other non-amateur stations are used informally as propagation indicators. These include:

United Kingdom

In the UK ( ITU Region 1 ), the 60 metre segment tends to be known by its frequency equivalent - 'the 5 MHz band' - and is available to all UK Full Licensees. It is the subject of active research by radio amateurs due to its propagation properties. This research commenced in August 2002 with the allocation of five 3 kHz-wide channels, which by mid-2006 had been increased to seven.

In December 2012, UK regulator, Ofcom, announced permission for 11 new frequency blocks, following representations from the RSGB and subsequent Ofcom discussions with the 'Primary User' of 5 MHz in the UK, the British Ministry of Defence (MoD). Although the MoD was unable to permit a continuous band, this allocation of seven channels was substantially increased to eleven frequency 'blocks' (or 'bandlets'), integrating the existing channels. These became active on 1 January 2013.

Following an Ofcom consultation document on a review of the UK Amateur Licence during 2014, in 2015 Ofcom issued a new UK Amateur Licence which incorporated the UK 5 MHz allocation into the main licence schedule for all UK Full Licensees (Individual, Club, Reciprocal). This came into force on 7 April 2015. The previous 5 MHz 'Notice-of-Variation' (NoV) is now no longer required, however it is still a licence requirement that the Licensee shall only operate on the band to the extent that the Licensee can be contacted on a telephone which is located in close proximity to the Station.

There are some additional restrictions which still apply -

All Modes allowed. This provision is on a Secondary, non-interference (NIB) basis. Instructions on amateur radio 60m operations in the UK are provided in the RSGB '5 MHz' web pages and at the Ofcom Amateur Radio Section.

The UK 5 MHz Frequency Blocks are:-

The former seven 3 kHz-wide channels used for 5 MHz operation in the UK up to 31 December 2012 were: 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz (all USB Dial Frequencies).

The Summits on the Air (SOTA) program uses 5 MHz for a number of activations, with considerable activity from some operators.

As well as Analogue Voice and CW, the band in the UK is also used for Digital Communications in modes such as PSK31, Olivia, MFSK, MT63, SSTV and Hellschreiber - success being shown with most modes, despite the problems that can result from ionospheric distortion, particularly to the phase of the signal.

In the UK, 5 MHz is also used for one of the weekly RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) news bulletin broadcasts under the special transmit-only callsign GB2RS. The transmission takes place on Sundays at 1500 hrs UTC on 5398.5 kHz USB. The intention is to prove that 5 MHz provides a reliable vehicle for a national news broadcast which is able to cover the whole of the UK. After the news a net is carried out with signal reports exchanged.

This band is unique in the United Kingdom insofar as UK 5 MHz operators may also communicate under controlled operating conditions with UK Military stations or UK Military Cadet Youth Organizations with links to the MoD using these frequencies. They use MoD allocated call signs, which differ significantly from those issued by Ofcom to the Amateur Radio Service in the UK.

The HF Team of RAYNET (Radio Amateurs' Emergency Network - the UK's Amateur Radio Emergency Communications body) includes 5 MHz in its regular 7 Day cycle of HF Nets (See RAYNET HF Team reference in 'External Links' section)

The 5 MHz band has proved to support reliable intra-UK communication using low power and NVIS (Near Vertical Incidence Skywave) antennas under daylight conditions, but can be sometimes affected by solar disturbances. The nature of the band, together with relatively light levels of activity and interference experienced, no doubt enhance this aspect. Several technical papers have also been published on NVIS at 5 MHz, utilising information gleaned from monitoring of the UK 5 MHz beacon chain over the numerous years of its existence. Data collected over the years since 2002 for analysis of 5 MHz propagation in the UK can be found in the RSGB's Spectrum Forum 5 MHz database

United States

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) made the 60-meter band available to General, Advanced and Amateur Extra US amateur radio license classes in 2003. The five channels currently used for the 60 meter band in the USA ( ITU Region 2 ) are:

Modes permitted:

which includes any digital mode with a bandwidth of 2.8 kHz or less whose technical characteristics have been documented publicly, per Part 97.309(4) of the FCC Rules. Such modes would include PACTOR I, II or III, 300-baud packet, MFSK, MT63, Contestia, Olivia, DominoEX and others

Maximum Power: 100W PEP ERP referenced to a half-wave dipole. Secondary status.

At no time may any transmission exceed the channel bandwidth of 2.8 kHz and the center of all CW emissions must coincide with the authorized center frequencies. Automatic operation is not permitted and the control operator of a station transmitting data emissions must exercise care to limit the length of transmission so as to avoid causing harmful interference to United States Government stations.

On 5 March 2012, following earlier proposals by the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), the FCC brought into effect new rules detailing several changes in US 60-meter amateur radio operations. These included:

As a part of preparation of justification for a 60-meter band, the ARRL organized a group of twelve amateur radio operators, most of whom had experience in trying to communicate with stations in the Caribbean to obtain eye-witness reports of hurricanes in that region. The group was assigned by FCC WA2Xxx call signs and allowed to transmit on the 60-meter band as experimental stations. That group's report of conditions on that band became central to ARRL's request for the band for amateur use. That initial effort stressed continuous communication with the Caribbean hurricane region and timely reports to the Miami National Hurricane Center to supplement other observations and to take emergency messages. ARRL requested an article for its QST magazine from Charles Harpole, K4VUD and WA2Xxx, about the band's use, but that article was only placed briefly on the ARRL Internet site. ARRL confirmed that their plan was to move away from hurricane and emergency uses of the band toward general amateur uses. Harpole, as K4VUD near Orlando, Florida, made the first transatlantic two-way ham radio communication with a ham station near London; notice of that achievement was also suppressed by ARRL fearing FCC concern that the band become too rapidly a normal use amateur band .

Countries with band allocations

Andorra ( ITU Region 1 ): In June 2016 Andorran amateurs were permitted access to the new WRC-15 60m allocation from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis with a maximum power of 15W EIRP; modes are permitted CW and SSB. Prior to that, the Andorran national amateur radio society, URA - Unio de Radioaficionats Andorrans, announced in July 2014 that they had received official permission to operate between 5275 – 5450 kHz on a secondary basis for short and medium distance propagation studies. Maximum power allowed was 100W PEP with a bandwidth not exceeding 3 kHz utilizing CW and USB. That permission was temporary until WRC-15 the license then being annulled from December 2015. ( Source: C31CT )

Australia ( ITU Region 3 ): The ACMA ( Australian Communications and Media Authority) published a new Spectrum Frequency allocation document in December 2016 with an intended implementation date of January 1. 2017. The document is available here: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/F2016L02001/Download The document includes the WRC-15 allocation from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz to the Amateur Radio Service on a secondary basis. Maximum Power is 15W EIRP. There are delays with implementation of the new plan however Australian Full licence holders should get access to the 60m band during 2017.

Bangladesh ( ITU Region 3 ): From 2005, the band 5250 – 5310 kHz was allocated nationally to the amateur service on a secondary basis for propagation experiments. Stations of the amateur service in Bangladesh shall not cause harmful interference to any station operating in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations, which in this case will be of a governmental or commercial nature. All modes are permitted to ( Source: Bangladesh Telecomms Administration NFAP )

Barbados ( ITU Region 2 ): The regulator permits operation from 5250 – 5400 kHz on USB Voice, maximum power 100W PEP ( Source:- The Telecoms Unit of the Barbados Government - Spectrum Management Handbook )

Belarus ( ITU Region 1 ): From July 2016, amateurs in Belarus have had access to the WRC-15 allocation from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz. Maximum Power is 50 Watts. SSB, CW and digital modes are permitted to Class A (top level) Licensees.

Belgium ( ITU Region 1 ): At the beginning of March 2016, the Belgian telecoms regulator, IBPT/BIPT, issued a decision permitting access to the new WRC-15 60m allocation for all Belgian Class A amateur licensees (also known as the HAREC licence). The allocation is from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis with a maximum power of 15W EIRP. All modes are permitted.

Bulgaria ( ITU Region 1 ): Following a proposal submitted in November 2012 by the Bulgarian national amateur radio society, BFRA, to the Bulgarian national spectrum ( NRFSC ) and Regulation Commission ( CRC ), Bulgarian radio amateurs will be permitted access to a number of new bands including a 60m band allocation of 5250 – 5450 kHz on a Secondary basis. This has been confirmed and they are permitted all modes at 100 Watts ( Source: BFRA, LZ1US )

Croatia ( ITU Region 1 ): In July 2010 Amateurs were given special license access to 5 MHz on an individual, experimental basis. It permits operation from 5260 – 5410 kHz on all modes. Licences are valid for 1 year. ( Source:- 9A5K, OK1RP, Croatian Post & Electronic Communications Agency )

Cuba ( ITU Region 2 ): Faithful to their promise of a new universal 60m amateur band at WRC12, the Ministry of Communications of Cuba approved access to this new band for Cuban amateurs, reports CO7WT and CO2KK. The law, approved on January 20, 2014, allows the use of the 5 MHz spectrum from 5418 to 5430 kHz, a continuous 12 kHz-wide segment. The allocation is as a secondary user as per ITU RR 4.4 regulations, with the emphasis on its use in nets during emergencies - as Cuba is in the path of the Caribbean Hurricanes every year, this band provides a stable communication path for the island. The new law allows for everyday use, but once an Official Emergency is declared by the Cuban State then purely emergency traffic is permitted. Modes allowed are SSB, CW and Digital, the latter being limited to PSK31 and PSK63. All three Cuban licence categories can access the band based on Maximum Powers of 10W for Novices and 50W for all Other Licensees with a relaxation of this power limitation of up to 100W for all users in emergency conditions as needed for a reliable link establishment. ACS, the Cuban regulator, states that the allocation is for emergencies & experimentation. Access to this band is by individual operators requesting and obtaining approval from the authority which results in the modification of the amateur's licence.

Denmark, including The Faroe Islands ( ITU Region 1 ): Stations have as from 1 Jun 2012 been granted the spectrum 5250 – 5450 kHz, all-mode with secondary status by their regulator, the Enterprise Agency ( ERST ). 1 kW ERP is permitted for Category A licensees, and 100W for Category B. Previously in 2011, Danish amateur stations had to apply for a special experimental research license for a year at a time. Prior to that they were allocated channels. ( Source: the Danish ERST & EDR websites )

Finland ( ITU Region 1 ): On 9 December 2016, the Finnish communications authority, FICORA, issued a decision permitting access to the new WRC-15 60m allocation for all Finnish amateur licensees. The allocation is from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis with a maximum power of 15W EIRP. All modes are permitted. (See also Channel Allocations entry)

Germany ( ITU Region 1 ): On 19 December 2016, the German communications authority, BNetzA, issued a decision permitting access to the new WRC-15 60m allocation for German A class amateur licensees. The allocation is from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis with a maximum power of 15W EIRP. All modes are permitted.

Greenland ( ITU Region 2 ): It has recently been reported that the Greenland 5 MHz Amateur Allocation has now been expanded to a full allocation of 5250 – 5450 kHz from the original allocation of seven 5 MHz channels (these were 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz). The Telecommunications Authority has permitted USB, CW and digital modes as previously. ( Source: OX3XR )

Grenada ( ITU Region 2 ): The communications regulator - the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission ( NTRC ) permits 60m operation from 5250 – 5450 kHz. Their General licensees are permitted up to 500W PEP and Advanced licensees 1 kW PEP. Modes include USB and CW. ( Source: Grenada NTRC )

Hungary ( ITU Region 1 ): The Hungarian telecoms regulator, NMHH ( The National Media & Infocommunications Authority – Hungary ) following representations from the Hungarian national amateur radio society, MRASZ, has been issuing temporary permits for operation in the band 5350 – 5450 kHz on a Secondary basis for propagation research. The permits are valid for three months and can be re-applied for at the conclusion of the period. All modes are permitted with a maximum power of 100W (measured at the transceiver output terminal) currently in a nominal maximum bandwidth of 3 kHz. Hungarian amateurs apply for the permit via MRASZ, who collate the details then forward them to NMHH who issue the permit. Activity days are being organised and there is a CW beacon on 5352.5 kHz with the callsign HG7BHB. It is hoped that the situation may become more permanent later in the year. ( Source: HA7PL, MRASZ Secretary)

Iceland ( ITU Region 1 ): Amateur stations were given from December 13, 2010, permission for continued access to 5 MHz and were granted 150 kHz in the 5260 – 5410 kHz band, as a replacement for the eight fixed channels previously permitted. Maximum power allowed on 5 MHz is 100W ( 20 dBW ).

Kazakhstan ( ITU Region 1 ): Following a request from the Association of Amateur Radio Services in Kazakhstan (AARSK), the Republic of Kazakhstan state telecoms regulator, MIC (Ministry of Information, Communications & The Media) issued an official letter Number 16-1/1824-1 dated 22 December 2016 authorising use by Kazakhstan radio amateurs of the new WRC-15 60m Allocation of 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz on a Secondary basis. At this time no maximum power limit has been indicated and this will be further clarified with the Ministry by discussions with AARSK, who are also advocating use of the IARU Region 1 60m Provisional Bandplan.

Latvia ( ITU Region 1 ):Latvian amateurs have a new 5 MHz band following the introduction of their new amateur radio licence on August 9, 2016. Access has been allowed to the new WRC-15 60m /5 MHz allocation 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz - with a power of 15W EIRP. It is subject to a narrow transmit bandwidth of 800 Hz and is permitted to Category A (i.e. top level) licence holders only.

Luxembourg ( ITU Region 1 ): The Radioamateurs du Luxembourg (national amateur radio society) advises that since 10 October 2016, the new WRC-15 60m band allocation has been released for amateur radio use in Luxembourg. The update to the national frequency plan of the 3rd October, published in the Memorial (the official Luxembourg government publication) on 10 October allows the use from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz on a secondary basis with an "Effective Radiated Power" of 15W.

Netherlands ( ITU Region 1 ): Amateurs with a full licence ('F' registration) have been allowed to use the band 5350 – 5450 kHz since December 3, 2015 on a Secondary basis. Maximum power 100 Watts PEP.[3]

Niger ( ITU Region 1 ): The Niger telecoms regulator, ARTP (Autorité de Regulation des Telecommunications et de La Poste du Niger), permits 60m access in the country to all Niger amateurs under the WRC-15 allocation of 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz and its subsequent footnote. (Source: EA5GM, W8GEX)

Norway ( ITU Region 1 ): On November 6, 2009, the band 5260 – 5410 kHz was opened for general Amateur Radio use, following initially eight channels in the 60m band being made available for Emergency and Emergency Preparedness activities. The allocation is secondary and power is limited to 100 watts. The band was one of the HF bands used in June 2011 during a communications emergency

Oman ( ITU Region 1 ): Oman is allowing 5 MHz operation by means of temporary permits in co-operation with the Royal Omani Amateur Radio Society (ROARS). The allocation covers the range 5319 – 5349 kHz. CW, SSB and Digital Modes are allowed. ( Source: A45WH, ROARS, W8GEX)

Portugal, including The Azores Islands ( ITU Region 1 ): In November 2016, the telecommunications regulator, ANACOM, permitted 5 MHz operation on the new WRC-15 60m allocation 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz, together with two other 3 kHz channels, 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz. Modes allowed are AIA and J3E. No power limit is given. See also Channel entry. ( Source CT1EEB )

Republic of Ireland ( ITU Region 1 ): Irish regulator ComReg published on 22 December 2016 an amended version of the Amateur Station Guidelines in Document ComReg 09/45R2. The main revision is that the WRC-15 band of 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz has been released with immediate effect on a secondary basis. No application or fee is necessary for this segment. The power is 15 watts PEP (12dBW) measured at the output of the transmitter or amplifier. All modes including digimodes may be used. The national society, IRTS, recommends that USB be used for voice as has been the convention on this band and as used by the primary user and that the provisional IARU band plan be used. This allocation does not affect the availability of the existing channels centred on 5280, 5300, 5332, 5348, 5400 and 5405 kHz. Special authorisation is still required for these channels at an annual licence fee of €30. (Sources; ComReg, EI7CD, Ei7GL) See also Channel entry.

Samoa ( ITU Region 3 ): Following discussions, Atsuo Sakuma, 5W1SA, has become the first resident operator on the island to be issued with a special 5 MHz permission by the Samoan telecomms regulator, OoTR (Office Of The Regulator), enabling him to operate over the frequency band 5250–5450 kHz. Although occasional 60m permissions have been available to visitors since 2011, these had generally been the 5 US channels. The permanent amateur population in Samoa has been low in numbers and currently Atsuo is the only resident licensed operator. In April 2013, a dialogue commenced between the regulator and Atsuo which has now eventually resulted in a band rather than purely a channelized allocation. He is permitted 100W, with no other restrictions. It is hoped that this power level may be able to be increased in the future, provided there are no interference issues.

Slovakia ( ITU Region 1 ): Radio amateurs were allowed access to a band from 5258.5 kHz to 5410 kHz for experimental purposes on a non-interference basis by their Telecommunications Regulatory Authority in August 2011, having previously been permitted a single channel centred on 5260 kHz. This was as a result of negotiations with the Slovakia Amateur Radio Association and their ARES ( Amateur Radio Emergency Service ). Maximum power permitted is 100W ERP. Licenses are valid for 1 year.

Slovenia ( ITU Region 1 ): The Slovenian telecoms regulator, AKOS, has given permission for use of the 60m band in Slovenia. First of all a temporary three-month licence (Jan. 11 – Apr.11 2017) is being issued to all Slovenian amateurs who apply for it. The allocation is the WRC-15 one from 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz with 15W EIRP. It is hoped that in three months the administration will adopt the regulation fully which will be valid for all. Use of the IARU Region 1 60m bandplan is recommended. (Source: S50A, W8GEX)

Somalia ( ITU Region 1 ): The Somali Ministry of Information, Telecommunications & Culture permits non-channelized 5 MHz/60 Meter operation. Upper Sideband [USB] must be used and the allocation is from 5060 – 5450 kHz. All modes are allowed and the maximum power permitted is 3 kW on a non-interference basis.

Spain ( ITU Region 1 ): Following the result of the WRC-15 decision on 5 MHz the Spanish administrator has now permitted access to the new allocation 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz, 15W max EIRP, 3 kHz max. Bandwidth using SSB and CW modes as at the end of November 2015, their previous Spanish 5 MHz permission came to a close. The new permission runs until 31 December 2016. Originally, in December 2013 the relevant Spanish regulatory authority, SETSI, granted permission for six 5 MHz channels following representations by URE, the Spanish national amateur radio society. These were:- 5268.0, 5295.0, 5313.0, 5382.0, 5430.0 and 5439.0 kHz for a period of six months, commencing January 1. 2014 on the basis of short-to-medium distance and emergency communications criteria. These were channel-centre frequencies, the corresponding USB 'Dial' frequencies being 5266.5, 5293.5, 5311.5, 5380.5, 5428.5 and 5437.5 kHz respectively. To those applicants who were at the requisite licence level to qualify, CW and SSB [USB] modes were permitted with a Power Limit of 100W and bandwidth not to exceed 3 kHz. Following a petition from URE to the regulator, on June 18, 2014 the period of experimental operation was officially extended to November 30, 2015.

Sweden ( ITU Region 1 ): From the end of October 2016 the Swedish Post & Telecom (PTS) regulator has been issuing temporary (6 month) experimental licenses for 5351.5 – 5366.5 kHz. Maximum power permitted is 15W EIRP on a non-interference basis. Mobile operation is not allowed. Bandwidth is limited to 3 kHz independent of the type of modulation. This replaces the previous four 3 kHz segments of 5310, 5320, 5380 and 5390 kHz that been used during the past years which now have expired. The administration fee is 300 SEK (approx. 30 USD/Euros per period). The first experimental permits were issued at the beginning of 2013. ( Sources: SM7DLK, SM6YOR, SMØTSC, SM6CNN, IARU Reg. 1 website, PTS )

Switzerland ( ITU Region 1 ): Starting on Jan 1, 2017, Switzerland has 60m/5 MHz privileges: http://www.uska.ch/2016/11/18/schweiz-freigabe-60m-band/ WRC-15 conditions apply - 15W EIRP and frequencies available: 5351.5 – 5354.0 kHz: CW, small-band modes 5354.0 – 5366.0 kHz: all modes (for SSB use USB) 5366.0 – 5366.5 kHz: (small-band modes section is for weak signal modes).

Trinidad & Tobago ( ITU Region 2 ): The band 5250 – 5450 kHz is allocated on a secondary basis to the Amateur service. Maximum output power is 1.5 kW ( source 9Y4NED )

Countries with block allocations

Some administrations are unable to allow a full band allocation, but are prepared to provide additional frequencies other than dedicated channels. In such cases, blocks of frequencies may be allocated.

Macedonia ( ITU Region 1 ) RSM - Radioamaterski Sojuz na Makedonija, the Macedonian national amateur radio society, has been involved in discussions with their national telecommunications regulator, AEC - the Agency for Electronic Communications to achieve an amateur allocation in the 5 MHz region. Commencing April 2014, AEC has issued permission for 14 mostly 5 kHz-wide blocks between 5250 and 5450 kHz with 100W Voice, CW and Data. This current permission is granted until 30 January 2017. RSM had originally requested permission for a small group of dedicated radio amateurs ‘ with good experience ’, but as the permission has been given to RSM as an organisation, then this may possibly be modified in the future in the light of evidence accrued.(Source: Z35BY, Z32TO, RSM)

United Kingdom ( ITU Region 1 ) The UK was allocated 11 frequency blocks of varying bandwidths in January 2013. Full information is contained in the United Kingdom entry above.

Countries with channel allocations

Global communication is possible during grey line and night time ionospheric conditions with reports of 70 plus countries having been worked from the UK alone.

In all, radio amateurs from approximately 100 countries have been active on 5 MHz at one time or another since the availability of the band to amateur radio.

Radio amateurs from many countries that do not have transmit access to 60m monitor the band and post their reports of stations heard on activity spotting pages such as the DXWatch 60m page, 60 Meter DX Logger and similar sites ( several of which appear in the External Links section of this article ), together with the Reverse Beacon Network 60m page which indicates current CW activity on the band.

It is quite likely that not all countries' allocations will line up to allow single frequency contacts to be made, in which case split-frequency operation would appear the optimum solution to allow the parties concerned to remain within their legally-allotted frequency limits (presuming of course that the parties' licenses permit this type of split-frequency operation)

Bahrain ( ITU Region 1 ): General Class licensees (all 'A9' prefixed stations) are authorized to use two specific 3.0 kHz channel assignments with center frequencies 5373 kHz and 5405 kHz. The corresponding Upper Sideband (USB) 'dial' frequencies are 5371.5 kHz and 5403.5 kHz. These frequencies are assigned to the amateur service on a secondary non interference basis for propagation experiments. Such stations shall not cause harmful interference to stations of other administrations operating in accordance with the ITU Radio Regulations. The maximum mean power of any amateur station shall not exceed 27 dBW (500 Watts).

Canada ( ITU Region 2 ): On Wednesday 22 January 2014, the Canadian regulator, Industry Canada (IC) released a decision to allow amateur radio operators to use the 5332  kHz, 5348  kHz, 5358.5  kHz, 5373  kHz and 5405  kHz (channel centre) frequencies on a no-interference, no-protection basis, 2.8 kHz bandwidth, same modes as U.S., 100W PEP maximum power. These are the same channels, modes and criteria as those available to US operators on 5 MHz and are as the result of the official IC consultation held earlier in Summer 2012. Prior to this Canadian Amateurs were allowed at the beginning of April 2012 to apply for special interim 5 MHz/60m. development licences under the VX9 callsign series by their regulator, Industry Canada. This provided for the same channels and facilities accorded to US licensees. Following discussions with the Canadian national amateur radio society - Radio Amateurs of Canada (RAC) and the implementation of the US FCC new 60m rules in March 2012, Industry Canada (IC) issued a consultation notice for Canadian radio amateurs in the government Canada Gazette on May 12, 2012. It proposed the American 60m channels and conditions, plus an extra one at 5329 kHz for Canadian domestic use only (at the request of RAC), making a total of six channels. Canadian amateurs had until 12 June 2012 to comment and responses were published on the Industry Canada website on 22 June 2012. At the successful conclusion of this process IC intended to permit general availability of these 5 MHz/60m channels to Canadian amateurs. In the meantime, amateurs were invited to apply to IC for a special interim 5 MHz/60m developmental licence in order to have the opportunity of gaining early access to these frequencies. Amateurs holding the Basic + (with Honours) or the Advanced Certificate were eligible for licensing on these frequencies. Before this, 5 MHz/60m activity from Canada had been on a special permission, limited time basis on specified frequencies. This had originated as early as 2002.)

Cayman Islands ( ITU Region 2 ): 60m authorizations became effective on March 29, 2010 and in common with other amateur licensing aspects on the Islands, follow the US 5 MHz allocation and conditions ( Source: ZF1EJ )

Czech Republic ( ITU Region 1 ): Following submission of a further comprehensive document on last year’s 5 MHz amateur operation in the Czech Republic and evidence of 5 MHz amateur operating frequencies elsewhere in Europe, Petr, OK1RP, reports that the Czech telecommunications regulator CTU, together with the Czech Ministry of Defence (MoD), have agreed to continue 5 MHz permits for Czech (OK) radio amateurs following the conclusion of their 2016 permit, under the same terms, frequencies and conditions.

The number of 5 MHz channels available under the present permit, updated in 2015, has been increased from 6 to 12 and a substantial number of these have been aligned primarily with the UK allocations. The channels now available are 5276.0, 5288.5, 5298.0, 5313.0, 5330.5, 5333.0, 5362.0, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5395.0, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz. All are USB Dial Frequencies, CW Frequencies being + 1.5 kHz from USB Dial. All other Czech 5 MHz permit criteria remain as before (Max. Power 100W ERP, 3 kHz Max. Bandwidth) except that there is now no limit to the number of permits available. Permission continues on a yearly report basis.

At 0000hrs on Jan. 1st 2014, Czech ('OK') amateurs returned to 5 MHz after a break of two years following the conclusion of the original phase of their experimental activity at the end of 2011. As a result of material presented on OK amateur 5 MHz operation and through subsequent discussions, CTU, the Czech telecommunications regulator, together with the agreement of their Ministry of Defence (MoD) allowed a further phase of experimental 5 MHz activity. This was by means of a small number of individual permits valid until the end of 2014. Only 10 permits were available for 2014 based on written request to CTU. Whilst originally limited to only one channel, 5260 kHz, OK amateurs issued with one of these special permits were allowed use of six channels, common to many of the current amateur 5 MHz allocations. These were as follows 5288.5, 5330.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz - All are USB Dial Frequencies in kHz. Maximum Power: 100W ERP. Modes: USB, CW (+ 1.5 kHz from USB Dial). The permit holder was requested to prepare and send his experimental operation report to CTU no later than 31st.October 2014 in order that analysis of the operation on the different channels and modes could be made.

This experimental operation permit on the 5 MHz band is allowed on a strictly SECONDARY basis and ITU Secondary User rules for protection of the Primary users must be observed at all times in order NOT to disrupt primary users’ operation on this band, therefore potentially jeopardizing amateur activity. The permit holder is also asked to follow IARU recommendations for 5 MHz operation and agreements (5290 kHz allocation for beacon operation etc.) ( Source: IARU Reg. I 60m Update [see 'External Links'] and OK1RP E-Mail )

Dominica ( ITU Region 2 ): The Dominica National Telecommunications Regulator has permitted Amateur operation on five 3 kHz-wide channels on 5 MHz. These are - 5330.5, 5346.5, 5355.5, 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz at 50W PEP Voice (SSB). These are available to General and Advanced licensees only http://www.ectel.int/images/Amateur-Radio-39-2012.pdf . Please note that the Dominica (J7) 5 MHz allocation should not be confused with the Dominican Republic (HI), which also has a 5 MHz allocation. (Source: ECTEL, Dominica NTRC)

Dominican Republic ( ITU Region 2 ): Amateurs have been granted permission to use seven 5 MHz channels. These are 5258.5, 5278.5, 5288.5, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5 and 5403.5 kHz. Modes currently permitted are USB and CW. ( Source: HI8HH and KQ6XA e-mails )

Finland ( ITU Region 1 ): Club stations could apply for a limited-time special authorization to operate on seven 5 MHz channels with maximum power of 50 Watts on USB only. The USB dial frequencies for these permits in Finland are: 5288.6, 5298.6, 5330.6, 5346.6, 5366.6, 5371.6, 5398.6 kHz. Starting 9 December 2016, all licensees in Finland have access to the WRC-15 band, but the special permits will be valid until the end of their respective license periods. ( Source: See IARU Region 1 60m Update, SRAL, FICORA )

Greece ( ITU Region 1 ): Their Ministry of Communication gave permission ONLY to the headquarters club station ( SZ1SV ) of the Greek national amateur radio society - RAAG, for use of the single channel 5400 kHz ( 3 kHz bandwidth ). Modes permitted were USB, CW and Digital with a maximum power of 100W PEP. They established a beacon, SZ1SV, on the frequency 5398.5 kHz utilising CW and PSK31 on a timed basis, structured so that it did not obstruct current activity on this channel. Contacts with SZ1SV could also be set up by arrangement. Further details are available from the RAAG website. ( Source: SV1IW, SV1JG, RAAG, W8GEX - 60m Information Website ) As of May 2015, their temporary 5 MHz licence has expired. Further news is awaited (Source: SV1XV ).

Honduras ( ITU Region 2 ): The National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) allows general, advanced and superior class licenses to operate on five center frequencies (5332, 5348, 5368, 5373, and 5405 kHz), in USB, with an Effective Radiated Power of 50 watts. By virtue of Resolution NR013/15 dated 30 September 2015, CONATEL upgraded the maximum power level to 100W ERP, changed the 5368 kHz to 5358.5 kHz and added the following modes - USB Voice (2K80J3E), Data (2K80J2D), RTTY (60H0J2B) and CW (150HA1A). This is in line with earlier US changes.

Israel ( ITU Region 1 ):The Israeli telecomms regulator - the Ministry of Communications - (IMOC) has decided to grant 5 MHz/60m temporary permission on an individual application basis. 8 Channels are available to General and Extra Class licence holders. The channels are: 5298.5, 5330.5, 5357.0, 5366.5, 5371.5, 5398.5, 5403.5 and 5407.0 kHz (these numbers represent the USB dial frequency - CW is 1.5 kHz higher). There is some flexibility as regards Digital modes with 2500 Hz out of the 3 kHz channel width being available, due to current experimentation with narrowband Data up to 300 Hz bandwidth. No split operation. Maximum Power is 100W PEP measured at the TX (not EIRP). The main goal of IARC - the Israel Amateur Radio Club - is to experiment for local short range emergency communication readiness and the long distance activity is a side product of this. The permission validity is from application approval date until mid March 2014 but it appears this could be extended. Operation is on a secondary status and was coordinated with the spectrum committee of the IMOC representing some other relevant organizations. IARC have had some flexibility in the choice of frequencies and in doing so have endeavoured to coordinate these with 5 MHz/60m amateur frequencies and activities already in existence. It is hoped that as IMOC gain confidence in 5 MHz/60m activity by Israeli amateurs as Secondary status users, then further frequencies may be made available ( Sources - IARC, 4Z1AB, 4Z1TL, 4Z4DX, W8GEX )

Portugal, including The Azores Islands ( ITU Region 1 ): In November 2016, the telecommunications regulator, ANACOM, reduced the number of channels to two, leaving 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz and added the new WRC-15 60m allocation. Originally, ANACOM, together with the military of the country, permitted 5 MHz operation on a secondary, non-interference basis on three channels 5288.5, 5371.5 and 5403.5 kHz, using CW and USB for Propagation and Emergency Communication coverage tests ( the frequency 5288.5 kHz was added in June 2011 ). Application was by individual request to ANACOM, the permit period being six-monthly. Further news, logs and official reports of previous operational periods could be viewed on the '5 MHz - Cinco Megahertz' pages of REP, the Portuguese National Amateur Radio Society's website - ( Source: CT1EEB, IARU Region 1 Website, CU3AK). In July 2014, REP was able to negotiate an additional channel with their regulator. The new channel was 5380.5 kHz and was in common with one of the Spanish 5 MHz channels, thus direct communication between the two countries was possible until Spain implemented the WRC-15 60m allocation in late 2015. See also Band entry.

Republic of Ireland ( ITU Region 1 ): In early January 2013, the regulator, ComReg, announced that those Irish amateurs who have taken out the special 5 MHz licence can apply for three more 3 kHz-wide channels, 5300, 5332 and 5348 kHz. All of these are channel center frequencies. This is in addition to the earlier three 3 kHz-wide channels allowed, 5280, 5400 and 5405 kHz, when stations first received permission to operate experimentally on the band on October 17, 2008 ( Source: IRTS News ), thus making a total of six channels now available. The frequency 5290 kHz is also available but is restricted to Listen Only ( for UK beacons ) due to other users. SSB (USB), CW and Phase Modulation is permitted with a max. power limit of 200W (23dBW) on a Secondary, non-interference basis. Communications with non-Amateur stations ( i.e. UK military cadet stations ) is not permitted. Application forms are available from the regulator,. ( Source - Republic of Ireland regulator ComReg ). Irish regulator ComReg published on 22 December 2016 an amended version of the Amateur Station Guidelines in Document ComReg 09/45R2. The main revision is that the WRC-15 band of 5351.5 to 5366.5 kHz has been released with immediate effect on a secondary basis. See also Band entry.

Romania ( ITU Region 1 ): The Romanian telecomms regulator ANCOM has granted Romanian amateurs access to 5 MHz on a scheduled testing basis, starting 8 Apr 2016 for approximately a year’s duration. At the moment it is limited to the 3 kHz-wide 5363.5 - 5366.5 kHz slot; CW, PSK, RTTY and WSJT (with possibly other digimodes to follow) being permitted. Maximum power allowed is 15W EIRP and only for those Romanian amateurs who wish to register for the testing program. It would currently appear that the initial testing in this Romanian 5 MHz allocation will take place every Thursday around 16.00 UTC, concomitantly with the YO DX QTC Net on 3750 kHz. Further information can be obtained from the website of the Romanian national amateur radio society; Federatia Romana de Radioamatorism – FRR (Source: YO3FCA/M0IPU, FRR )

South Africa ( ITU Region 1 ): At the end of April, 2013, ICASA (Independent Communications Authority of South Africa) - the national telecommunications regulator - approved two 5 MHz frequencies for the South African Radio League (SARL) to carry out propagation research. The frequencies currently allocated are 5290 and 5260 kHz. These are 'centre frequencies', the 'USB Dial' frequencies being 1.5 kHz below this (i.e. 5288.5 and 5258.5 kHz). All modes are permitted with 3 kHz maximum bandwidth. Max. Power is 400W PEP output, measured at the output of the radio. The 5290 kHz channel is intended for propagation experiments (e.g. SARL News Bulletin transmissions or Beacon) and must use omnidirectional antennas. The 5260 kHz channel is intended for general contacts. The licence was purchased by the SARL, so the channels are private and licensed to the SARL, who allow their members to use them. Participating licencees, who must be SARL members, must register. Following a SARL request, in April 2014 ICASA issued a long-term licence which was valid until 31 October 2015. A further extension was granted to February 2016. Another extension is being granted, with possible migration to the new frequency range agreed at WRC-15.

St. Kitts and Nevis ( ITU Region 2 ): In September 2015, General and Advanced Class amateurs received permission to operate on 5 MHz on a Secondary basis. The channels allocated are the same as those used by the USA, with 50W Max. ERP, SSB only. ( Source: ECTEL - Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority )

St. Lucia ( ITU Region 2 ): Amateurs have received permission to operate on 5 MHz on a Secondary basis. The channels allocated are the same as those used by the USA, with 50W Max. ERP, SSB only. ( Source: St. Lucia National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, 'Technical Standards for Amateur Radio Service' document )

Occasional permissions

Whilst most of the 60 meter operations listed in this article are either on a permanent secondary or experimental period basis, there are occasions when access is granted either on a one-off very limited time frame or for specific dates and times.

Other authorized 5 MHz operations have been reported such as Ascension Island, Belize, Colombia, Ghana, Kenya, Kiribati, Russia and Turkey. Some Amateur Radio DXpeditions have been permitted temporary access to 5 MHz, although the ARRL ( American Radio Relay League ) has expressed concern that over-emphasis on 'DX' activities could be counter-productive to the eventual obtaining of an ITU Amateur allocation at 5 MHz http://www.arrl.org/arrlletter?issue=2007-04-06

Emergencies only

In certain countries, Amateur access to frequencies in 5 MHz is on an emergency or search & rescue basis only. In addition, Amateur call signs may not always be used, nor Amateur equipment. Currently these countries are :-

Frequency lists

NIB = Non-Interference Basis

Bold = Beacons currently active

Italics = Frequency not operational at this specific time