Development of 5G networks in Ukraine

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• Main article: 5G (fifth generation of mobile communication)
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2021: Postponement of 5G launch dates

In early August 2021, it became known about the postponement of the launch of 5G networks in Ukraine - from December 2021 to July 2022. The corresponding order "On approval of the action plan for the introduction of the fifth generation mobile communication system in Ukraine" was adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers.

As indicated in the explanatory note to the decree of the Ukrainian government, there is no funding for the implementation of the previously prescribed plan. Therefore, the paragraph on conducting research to determine the cost of the radio frequency resource of the 700 MHz and 3400-3800 MHz range for the introduction of 5G mobile communications (it was planned to be implemented until June 2021) was deleted from the current resolution.

Ukrainian authorities delayed the launch of 5G due to lack of money

Instead, another item appeared - to ensure the study of the possibility of the general use of electronic means of special users (special communications) and the fifth-generation mobile communication system. The term is also indicated by another - until December 2021.

The Cabinet of Ministers should prepare a decree on changing the fee for licenses for a radio frequency resource in terms of the fee for a resource in the range of 694-790 MHz for mobile Internet. Frequencies under 5G at the same time want to be auctioned.

Earlier, an auction or tender for issuing licenses for the use of a radio frequency resource using 5G was to be held in October 2021. At the same time, in June it was planned to conduct research to determine the cost of the corresponding radio frequencies, as well as to study the possibility of sharing the 5G mobile communication system.

In order to implement the project in 2021-2023, the Ministry of Digital Affairs asked to allocate 4.6 billion UAH from the state budget. However, in 2021, funds from the state budget were not allocated. The Cabinet of Ministers identified the development of high-speed communication 4G and 5G as one of the priorities of digital transformation.^{[1] [2]}

2020

5G Frequency Release Start

In November 2020, Ukraine began to free up frequencies for fifth-generation (5G) networks. The corresponding plan was approved by the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine.

The document involves the release of radio frequency bands, the ranges of which are occupied by television, for the introduction of LTE radio technology in the bands 790-862 MHz, 694-790 MHz, on which Ukrainian television operates.

The approved plan provides for the release of frequencies by companies and the adjustment of equipment to lower ranges by Zeonbud and TPC Ether. The release of frequencies will not interfere with the work of television, because it will work in the lower ranges.

We are preparing Ukraine for the launch of 5G. We hope that in a year and a half, operators will already begin to receive licenses and we will have this technology. But before talking about specific deadlines, some research work needs to be carried out, "said Minister of Digital Transformation Mikhail Fedorov, whose words are quoted by the department that he heads.

Mikhail Fedorov, Minister of Digital Transformation of Ukraine

The announcement of a tender for frequencies for the development of 5G is planned for October 2021. The start of the deployment of the 5G network is expected from 2022 in the largest settlements. It is reported that 4G will be used in rural areas, remote areas and along roads.

For the introduction of 5G, the Cabinet of Ministers approved a plan for the use of the radio frequency resource of Ukraine until 2025. It is complemented by the new basic LTE/LAA, eLTE-U and PMP standards. These changes will allow users to get more stable and faster speeds when watching videos and listening to music.

In addition, the government expanded the powers of the Ministry of Digital Affairs, adding to them the possibility of providing financial support to local budgets for the development of broadband Internet access.^[3]

Radiophobes impede the development of 4G and 5G in Ukraine

In September 2020, the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine announced that local authorities and public utilities throughout the country are preventing the installation of base stations due to radiophobia. More details here.

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