MTS Shifts to Domestically Produced Routers
Russian telecom operators are accelerating efforts to reduce dependence on foreign equipment, with MTS leading the way by developing its own core network routers.
Reducing Import Dependence
MTS, one of Russia’s largest mobile operators, has announced the successful development of its own BRAS/BNG routers. These routers are critical components for managing fixed broadband traffic across the company’s transport network. The BRAS (Broadband Remote Access Server) equipment operates at the intersection of the backbone and broadband access networks. It performs functions such as traffic distribution, IP address allocation, and quality-of-service policy enforcement. Development began following the market exits of major global vendors like Cisco and Juniper. By late 2024, MTS engineers had completed a software-based router that runs on widely available x86 servers. In early 2025, the company certified the integrated MTS-BNG hardware-software suite and began pilot deployments in four regions: Amur, Belgorod, Nizhny Novgorod, and Chelyabinsk.
A Strategic Solution for Continuity
“It’s extremely difficult to find alternatives for this type of equipment due to limited demand and scarce market supply,” said Viktor Perov, Head of Regional Transport and Enterprise Networks at MTS. “We decided to create our own solution by assembling a strong team of in-house and external experts. The result is a software platform that can run on any available x86 server, which gives us flexibility and independence from specific hardware vendors.” MTS plans to expand deployments to ten more Russian regions in the coming year. Over time, the MTS-BNG platform will replace aging foreign systems throughout the operator’s national footprint.
Building a Domestic 5G Infrastructure
MTS is also focused on deploying domestically produced base stations, largely relying on its subsidiary Irteya, in which it holds a 50% stake. Since the departure of vendors such as Nokia and Ericsson in 2022, Irteya’s solutions have filled a critical gap in maintaining mobile infrastructure. Previously limited to 4G networks, Irteya unveiled its first 5G-capable base station in June 2025—marking the debut of a Russian-made 5G solution. Although no commercial 5G networks are operational in Russia yet, the product positions MTS for future deployment once the regulatory and commercial environments align.
Domestic Market Takes Priority
For now, the priority remains on ensuring nationwide service continuity. “It’s too early to talk about export potential,” say industry observers, noting challenges such as the halting of 4G base station development at Rostec’s subsidiary Spectr due to funding issues. Still, operators like MTS continue to demonstrate significant progress toward domestic technology independence. CEO Inessa Galaktionova recently confirmed that MTS aims to transition its transport networks in 29 regions entirely to Russian equipment by 2028.
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