The first step towards 5G in Ukraine: pilot network launched in Lviv

A pilot fifth-generation mobile communications network has been launched in Ukraine for the first time. The 5G test launch took place in the central part of Lviv and became a landmark event for the domestic telecom industry, paving the way for further scaling of the technology at the national level.

As reported by the press service of the Ministry of Digital Transformation, during the pilot, subscribers received a data transfer speed of about 500 Mbps per user. This significantly exceeds the performance of current networks and demonstrates the potential of 5G for the development of digital services, business and innovation.

Lviv was not chosen for the launch by chance. The city was identified as a kind of “technology laboratory” before the nationwide launch of the fifth-generation network. One of the highest penetration levels of smartphones ready to work in 5G networks in Ukraine has been recorded here, which allows us to correctly assess the demand and technical capabilities of the new technology.

In addition, the necessary infrastructure base has already been formed in Lviv. More than 20 new generation base stations have been built in the city, which ensure stable operation of the pilot network and allow testing various load scenarios and the use of 5G in real conditions.

The Ministry of Digital Affairs notes that further expansion of the pilot project will take place in stages. After receiving approval from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and completing testing in Lviv, the network is planned to be launched in other settlements.

In particular, in January, the pilot 5G is to be launched in Borodyanka, and in February - in Kharkiv. In the future, the project is planned to be extended to other cities, which will become the basis for the future national deployment of the fifth generation network in Ukraine.