Appeal for Opinions concerning Basic Draft Plan on R&D for Expansion of Radio Frequency Resources in FY 2012

1. Outline

　Recent wireless technology innovations have led to the diffusion of various services and businesses utilizing radio waves, and radio wave utilization systems now form an essential aspect of people's lives. In addition, the implementation of new radio wave utilization systems is expected to contribute to the resolution of various social problems in Japan, including the low birth rate and aging population, regional vitalization, etc. However, because of the extremely dense use of frequency bands with poor user-friendliness, it is difficult at present to introduce radio wave utilization systems.

　In order to promote the effective use of limited and scarce radio waves towards the introduction of new radio wave utilization systems, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) has since 2005 been commissioning universities, private organizations, etc. to conduct research and development for technology to facilitate the greater expansion of radio wave resources (R&D for expansion of radio wave resources).

　In implementing R&D for expansion of radio wave resources, R&D subjects are established by taking extensive applications for R&D subjects, and external assessments by third parties are conducted in order to scrutinize the contents of these subjects from technological and economical perspectives while ensuring necessity, effectiveness, efficiency, etc.

　Prior to extending a public appeal for R&D proposals for the expansion of radio frequency resources to be newly implemented from FY 2012, the MIC has compiled a basic draft plan describing R&D subject contents, technology subjects, targets to be reached, etc.

　Accordingly, there will now be an appeal for a wide range of opinions on this basic draft plan.

2. Subject of appeal for opinions

  There will be an appeal for opinions on the R&D subjects, technology subjects, targets to be reached, etc. as found in the basic draft plan for R&D subjects relating to R&D to be newly implemented from FY 2012.

　The basic draft plan can be inspected at the address provided at the end of this document, and will also be published in the “Reports and documents” area of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) website (http://www.soumu.go.jp) as well as in the “Public comment” field of e-Gov (http://www.e-gov.go.jp), the electronic coordinated government contact website.

3. Schedule

　A basic plan will be settled on based on the opinions received, and thereafter a public appeal for R&D proposals will promptly be held.

　Please note that when applying to the public appeal for R&D proposals it will be necessary to complete an electronic application procedure via the Cross-ministerial R&D Management System (hereinafter, “e-Rad”), so you will be required to register on e-Rad before applying.

　*For prior registration, please carry out “research institution registration” and “researcher registration.” Please register ahead of time, as the registration procedure can take up to two weeks.

　*Please see the e-Rad website: http://www.e-rad.go.jp/