A method for managing uplink channel estimation in a base station includes transmitting downlink data from a base station to a mobile terminal in a radio access network over a first portion of a Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) spectrum. The first portion of the FDD spectrum is designated for downlink data transfer. The method also includes transmitting a predetermined reference signal from the base station to the mobile terminal over a second portion of the FDD spectrum. The second portion of the FDD spectrum is designated for uplink data transfer. The predetermined reference signal permits the mobile terminal to perform a channel estimate on at least a portion of the second portion of the FDD spectrum. The method additionally includes receiving uplink data transmitted from the mobile terminal to the base station over the second portion of the FDD spectrum.