Defence Wants Secure Network For Vacating 3G Spectrum; 3G Spectrum Cost Now Rs.2700 Crore?

Quite literally, a spanner in the works: The defence forces have refused to accept the telecom network that have been recommended to them, which they deem ‘unsecure’. Apparently, fully secure networks will cost (almost) three times more at Rs.2700 crore. The cost of releasing spectrum was supposed to be paid by telcos and such a hike is going to again fuel debates about the feasibility of 3G. More details at the Economic Times.
As we’d reported earlier, the defence buys equipment from the North and the South blocs which operate of different frequencies, and hence they require more spectrum. The cost for spectrum is essentially due to the expense that will be incurred on switching. Our past coverage:
Related:
CDMA Spectrum To Interfere With GSM, Defence To Get 10Mhz In GSM Band?
Mobile India Forum 2006: Wing Cdr. S. Punnose of the JCES
TRAI To Recommend Auction For 3G In India
COAI offers Rs. 300 Crore For 3G; Is 3G worth it?

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