Ukraine begins 5G rollout with pilot in three cities

The Ukrainian Cabinet of Ministers approved changes to the radio frequency regulations, enabling the launch of 5G in Ukraine, according to Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.

"5G can transmit data up to 10 times faster than 4G, enabling high-speed, large-scale data exchanges. This is a crucial step towards full 5G implementation in Ukraine, which we aim to complete by 2030," Fedorov stated.

The pilot project will launch in three cities to test 5G compatibility with military equipment and will last two years, progressing through two stages.

During testing, the National Commission for Frequency Regulation (NCEC) and the Ukrainian State Center of Radio Frequencies will assess whether 5G equipment interferes with military networks.

The regulation also grants operators more flexibility: the 2100 MHz frequency can now support not only 3G but also 2G and 4G technologies. Additionally, repurposing the 694–862 MHz frequency from analog and digital television to mobile networks will free up additional bandwidth for mobile communication.