As of October 15, 2026, 5G networks are operational in 35 Russian cities. The total number of locations increased by 19 cities within one month following the official launch of the technology in the country.
MTS leads the market with 5G coverage in 29 cities. The operator recently expanded its network to include Yakutsk, Abakan, Orenburg, Kirov, Sochi, Vsevolozhsk, Kaliningrad, and Arkhangelsk.
Megafon and Beeline have deployed 5G networks in 11 cities each. Megafon focuses on high-traffic areas, including major railway stations in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, reporting a 18–20% increase in mobile internet speeds.
T2 reported that over 700,000 subscribers utilized its 5G services within the first week of launch. The company has covered 30–70% of its infrastructure in seven cities, with further expansion dependent on investment plans.
Initial 5G deployment utilizes frequencies previously allocated for LTE. According to the Ministry of Digital Development, this approach is expected to boost network capacity by 20–25% in the coming years.
