The First Thousand: Russian Telecom Operators to Receive Domestically Produced Base Stations
Russia is preparing for full technological independence in mobile infrastructure as it begins the mass deployment of domestically manufactured 4G and 5G-ready base stations.
From Sanctions to Sovereignty: Russia’s Rapid Response
When Western sanctions forced foreign vendors out of Russia, many expected a collapse of the telecom sector, long reliant on imported base stations. But government-led initiatives have averted that scenario, and now the country is on the brink of telecom independence.
By the end of 2025, Russian telecom operators will begin receiving the first batch of 1,000 base stations made entirely in Russia. Installation is scheduled to begin in 2026, according to Maksut Shadayev, Minister of Digital Development.
“This year, Russian-made base stations are already being shipped to major operators. By year’s end, we’ll deliver the first 1,000 4G and 5G-ready units. Starting next year, operators will begin deploying them across the network,” said Shadayev.
Multiple Vendors, Single Goal
Several Russian companies are engaged in producing base stations, including Irteya, Bulat, Spektr, and Yadro. Irteya’s units have been in pilot deployment since late 2024 through a partnership with MTS, which owns half of Irteya’s assets. The company is currently focused on implementing Single RAN technology, enabling support for 2G, 4G, and 5G networks. Notably, 3G support has been deliberately excluded as operators continue phasing it out.
Bulat has also entered commercial deployment. Earlier this year, its equipment passed field tests on Rostelecom’s infrastructure in Nizhny Novgorod. Following successful trials, Bulat confirmed its hardware and software are fully ready for network rollout.
A Roadmap to Full Localization
Under Russia’s federal project 'Domestic Solutions,' part of the national 'Data Economy' initiative, 100% of all newly deployed GSM, LTE, and 5G base stations are to be of Russian origin by 2029. Milestones include 33% localization by 2027 and full LTE station replacement by 2028.
This timeline highlights a structured transition from imported hardware to a fully sovereign infrastructure backbone, ensuring both operational continuity and long-term resiliency.
From Importer to Exporter
Beyond domestic self-sufficiency, Russia is laying the groundwork for export opportunities. Mass production of reliable base stations means better network stability for consumers, fewer supply chain disruptions for operators, and enhanced cybersecurity across critical infrastructure.
If Russian base stations prove reliable over time, they could find a market in the CIS and Global South, where demand is growing for affordable alternatives to Western telecom giants.
This pivot represents a broader strategic transformation. Russia is not just plugging a gap left by sanctions; it’s creating a full-scale communications ecosystem capable of both sustaining its domestic market and competing internationally.
