Irteya, a subsidiary of the prominent Russian mobile operator MTS, is poised to usher in a new era of telecommunications by embarking on the development of cutting-edge 4G LTE and 5G base stations. This groundbreaking initiative is set to harness the potential of OpenRAN architecture, a revolutionary approach to telecom equipment, with the aim of bolstering Russia’s digital infrastructure. In a strategic move, Irteya is allocating substantial funds for this transformative endeavor, coupled with anticipated state budget support. This article delves into Irteya’s ambitious plan and its potential impact on Russia’s telecom landscape.
Irteya’s Vision: Advancing Telecom Infrastructure
Irteya, a subsidiary under the MTS umbrella, is charting a pioneering course in the realm of telecommunications. The company is poised to develop state-of-the-art 4G LTE and 5G base stations, underpinned by the innovative OpenRAN architecture. This move is part of a concerted effort to modernize and future-proof Russia’s mobile networks.
Financial Investment: Irteya has committed a substantial sum of RUB 5.6 billion to spearhead the development of advanced telecom equipment. Additionally, it anticipates receiving RUB 5.4 billion in financial support from the state budget, spanning the years 2023 to 2026. This robust financial backing underscores the significance of this endeavor in bolstering Russia’s digital infrastructure.
Roadmap to the Future: Irteya’s visionary roadmap, titled “Modern and Promising Mobile Networks” and extending up to 2030, encapsulates its commitment to technological advancement. The roadmap, finalized at the outset of 2023, outlines the blueprint for this transformative project. Key milestones include the launch of Irteya’s base stations, scheduled for September 2024. By June 2026, the company aims to achieve serial production, with a capacity of up to 20,000 units per year, highlighting the ambitious scale of this venture.
OpenRAN Architecture: A Paradigm Shift
Central to Irteya’s initiative is the adoption of OpenRAN architecture, representing a paradigm shift in telecom equipment design. OpenRAN introduces a modular and open approach, empowering operators to utilize flexible, interchangeable components. This innovation promises lower costs and enhanced flexibility in deploying and managing network infrastructure, ultimately benefiting end-users.
MTS Takes a Bold Step: Phasing Out 3G
In parallel to Irteya’s forward-looking venture, MTS is embarking on a bold move in the telecom landscape. The company has announced plans to phase out 3G mobile services across metropolitan Moscow and all zones within the Central Ring Road of the Moscow region by the close of 2023. This transition entails the refarming of 2100 MHz 3G base stations into the 4G LTE 2100 standard within the phase-out areas. The result? A substantial 30 percent boost in data speeds and an impressive 28 percent increase in network capacity.
5G Innovation with MTS and Matrix Wave
MTS, in collaboration with Matrix Wave, continues to push the boundaries of 5G technology. Their successful testing of a domestic millimeter-wave (n257) repeater for 5G networks marks a significant achievement. The tests demonstrated the retransmission of signals within the 26.5-29.5 GHz band, effectively eliminating blind zones. The remarkable downlink data transfer rate exceeding 1.3 Gbps showcases the potential of this cutting-edge technology.
Transforming Russia’s Telecom Landscape
Irteya’s ambitious foray into the development of 4G LTE and 5G base stations, fueled by OpenRAN architecture, promises to redefine Russia’s telecom landscape. As MTS steers toward phasing out 3G in Moscow, and with groundbreaking innovations like the millimeter-wave repeater, Russia’s digital infrastructure is on an upward trajectory. Irteya’s commitment to technological advancement and robust financial support from the state budget underscore the significance of these initiatives. The stage is set for Russia to emerge as a trailblazer in the realm of telecommunications, offering enhanced connectivity and cutting-edge technology to its citizens.
