Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media announced on September 11, 2026 that the country’s first commercial 5G networks are live in 16 major cities. The launch follows a late August 2026 decision by the State Commission for Radio Frequencies (GKRCh). That decision lets operators run 5G in their existing LTE bands and gives each of the four major operators 90 MHz in the 4630 to 4990 MHz band without an auction. Beeline, MegaFon, MTS and T2 have all launched in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg, and coverage in other cities varies by operator.
GKRCh Conditions for 5G Deployment
- Existing LTE bands: Operators can deploy 5G in the frequencies already assigned to them for LTE (4G).
- New mid-band spectrum: Each of the four major operators receives 90 MHz in the 4630 to 4990 MHz band, with no auction.
- Foreign equipment: Foreign base stations installed on operator networks before September 1, 2026 can be used for 5G.
- Domestic equipment: A phased transition to Russian-made base stations begins in 2027 and must be completed by the end of 2031.
- Coverage timeline: 5G in the 4630 to 4990 MHz band must reach the most popular locations in cities of over one million people by the end of 2028, followed by phased expansion over three years. The ministry also plans to extend 5G to 50 more cities by the end of 2026.
Why Russia Is Not Using the 3.4 to 3.8 GHz Band
In most markets, 5G is built on the 3.4 to 3.8 GHz range. In Russia, the military and security services hold exclusive control of that band, and mobile operators have been unable to gain access to it. A 2025 auction planned for the 4800 to 4990 MHz range was also cancelled after operators objected to its terms. The exit of major foreign network equipment suppliers from Russia slowed deployment further.
Device Compatibility for 5G in Russia
The 4630 to 4990 MHz range falls within 3GPP band n79. Far fewer smartphones and modules support n79 than the n77 and n78 bands used for 5G in most markets. The ministry said Android users will gain 5G access in the near future, and said access for iPhone users depends on a decision by Apple. Operators can also run 5G on their existing LTE frequencies, so some devices without n79 may connect, depending on the bands they support and how the manufacturer has enabled them.
What This Means for Manufacturers
Manufacturers planning 5G products for Russia should first confirm which NR bands their devices support. That includes n79 and the bands operators are converting from LTE. They should also check whether a software or carrier enablement step is needed. Products should be assessed against Russia’s current conformity and import requirements before shipment.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Russia
Certification Body: Ministry of Industry and Trade of the Russian Federation (Minpromtorg of Russia)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: 60 Months
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Local Representative
In-Country Testing Requirement: Product Specific
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