In Ukraine, the introduction of 5G technology remains at the initial stage of development, and the Kyivstar mobile communication operator told what conditions it is necessary to fulfill in order for Ukrainians to use advanced cellular technology.
The current 5G standard is one of the most modern and fastest mobile standards that is already available to residents of many countries. But in Ukraine, the process of implementing this technology has not ended.
There are several important steps in Ukraine to start 5G in Ukraine. First, you need to approve the plan for using the radio frequency spectrum and auction to sell the appropriate frequencies. This implies that the implementation of 5G can only begin within limited pilot projects with a limited number of base stations and testing time.
One of the key frequency ranges for 5G is a 3500 MHz range, which has a free spectrum of 400 MHz. However, the auction for this spectrum can only take place after approval of the new "plan for the distribution and use of radio frequency spectrum in Ukraine" by the Cabinet of Ministers Resolution. This plan determines the selection of 3500 MHz and 700 MHz ranges for 5G.
The 700 MHz range is of particular importance because it provides a continuous 5G coating and is suitable for 5G and 4G. However, this spectrum is currently used by digital and military services, which complicates the organization of the auction at these frequencies.
In addition, it is necessary to carry out work on the release of this spectrum, such as conversion, research and identifying frequency lanes. In addition, the conditions of the auction and the initial price of the spectrum lots should be approved. To date, there is a shortage of the operator spectrum in Ukraine compared to the European Union.
Kyivstar operator actively prepares all the necessary segments of its network to start 5G initially with NSA architecture. This architecture does not require SIM card replacement and allows you to quickly expand the network by connecting to an existing 4G network. However, it will take several years to fully introduce 5G technology in Ukraine.