A long‑term plan to reshape Russia’s telecom policy through 2035 moves to drop the so‑called gold band from 5G services. This shift was announced by Maksut Shadayev, head of the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media, in remarks reported by TASS. The change signals a strategic reallocation of the 5G spectrum across the country, aiming to streamline how spectrum is assigned and used while keeping Russia’s digital backbone robust amid evolving global connectivity standards.
Shadayev explained that the draft strategy will prohibit the gold range, while other spectrum bands remain eligible for 5G deployment. He pointed to the 4400–4990 MHz segment as an example of bands that will continue to support next‑generation networks, ensuring sustained capacity and reliable performance for Russia’s advancing digital infrastructure as urban centers and regional hubs expand their online services and smart solutions.
On June 29, Kommersant cited the ministry as indicating the possibility of establishing a single 5G radio frequency operator with access to the gold band spanning 3.4–3.8 GHz. The report suggested that the state could create one dominant 5G operator, endowed with the spectrum required to deliver high data rates and strong network performance across the country’s busy metropolitan areas and long‑distance corridors alike.
Earlier, Igor Shuvalov, head of the state corporation VEB.RF, stated that work had begun to deploy 5G base stations in Moscow’s metro system. He noted that domestically designed equipment would be used for base stations within the metropolitan transit network, underscoring a push to extend 5G access in major urban corridors with locally developed technology and indigenous manufacturing capabilities that align with Russia’s broader industrial policy goals.
A related note from prior reports highlighted cybersecurity concerns, recalling that many Russians faced password vulnerabilities that could be cracked quickly. This reminder emphasizes the importance of robust security measures alongside the rollout of advanced communication networks as the nation strengthens its digital capabilities and consumer protections in tandem with new infrastructure and services.