MegaFon Expands Smart Countryside Internet with New LTE Rollout
In Western Russia, MegaFon has activated new LTE infrastructure near Russia’s westernmost city, bringing fast mobile internet and smart home capabilities to dacha communities and suburban settlements around Baltiysk.
Fighting the Digital Divide
As part of its ongoing strategy to eliminate digital inequality, MegaFon has deployed new LTE infrastructure in the Kaliningrad region, specifically targeting suburban communities around Baltiysk. The upgrade covers more than 20 gardening cooperatives and cottage settlements, expanding connectivity in one of the country’s most remote urban fringes.
Operating across multiple frequency bands, the new equipment boosts network capacity and increases mobile internet speeds by approximately 30%. Average speeds now reach 80 Mbps, enabling users to stream live content, connect smart greenhouses and sensors, and stay in touch with family via video calls.
Additionally, subscribers now have access to VoLTE technology, allowing them to make voice calls while using high-speed data services without degradation in quality.
Ookla Recognition and Broader Upgrades
Earlier this year, network analytics firm Ookla recognized MegaFon as the leader in mobile speed and coverage in the Kaliningrad region. During H1 2025, median download speeds reached 42.41 Mbps.
MegaFon has been aggressively modernizing its network infrastructure across high-traffic tourist zones, newly developed residential areas, and small towns. The upgrades support the operator’s ambition to ensure seamless LTE coverage far beyond major cities.
Ground to Orbit: Satellite Connectivity Plans
MegaFon is not limiting its expansion to terrestrial networks. In early 2025, the company signed an agreement with aerospace firm Bureau 1440 to connect 500 base stations to a satellite constellation. This collaboration is expected to enhance internet access in hard-to-reach areas using next-generation satellite links.
With Russia’s vast geography, no single operator can bridge the coverage gap alone. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Digital Development has introduced an initiative that will change how telecom infrastructure is shared across the country.
Infrastructure Sharing and Legislative Reform
Under new legislative proposals, mobile operators would be required to share base stations along federal highways and in small settlements with populations under 1,000—areas where service by all major providers is not currently available. The law, which passed its first reading in June 2023, is expected to go into effect following a second reading scheduled for the upcoming parliamentary session.
The Ministry of Digital Development argues that infrastructure sharing could significantly improve service quality without burdening operators with extra costs. Shared access is also expected to extend LTE and mobile coverage to remote regions, supporting national goals of digital equity.
A government order will define the list of highways and settlements affected. According to federal plans, LTE coverage is expected across all federal highways by 2031.
