The Ministry of Digital Development has prepared a proposal for launching fifth-generation networks, which will be considered at the next meeting of the State Commission for Radio Frequencies.
The "big four" operators – VimpelCom, MegaFon, MTS, and T2 – will be able to deploy 5G on frequencies previously allocated for LTE and will receive new bands in the 4630–4990 MHz range. Foreign equipment will be allowed if installed before September 1, 2026. Starting in 2027, the transition to Russian-made base stations will begin, which should be completed by the end of 2031.
The new frequencies are planned to be used to cover the most popular locations in cities with over a million inhabitants. The launch of networks in these cities must take place no later than December 31, 2027. The Ministry previously canceled the auction for 4800–4990 MHz frequencies at the request of operators: they called this range supplementary, citing the short range of base stations and a payback period of 20–30 years.