MTS intends to deploy 5G networks across the majority of the Far Eastern Federal District by the end of 2026. The initial phase relies on technological neutrality, allowing operators to utilize existing LTE frequency bands. This approach has already been implemented in Yakutsk and Chita, with Khabarovsk gaining access to gigabit 5G on October 28.
According to company estimates, transitioning to the new standard using current frequencies will boost data transmission speeds by approximately 10–15%. The broader strategy for 5G development in Russia involves two distinct stages, with the second phase starting in 2027. This later stage will focus on deploying faster networks within the 4.9 GHz band using domestically produced equipment.
As of September 11, MTS has enabled gigabit 5G access in the 4.9 GHz band across Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, and Ufa. In these locations, peak data speeds reach 1.5 Gbit/s. For comparison, the maximum performance of current LTE networks operated by Russian providers typically caps at around 350 Mbit/s.
