The State Commission on Radio Frequencies (SCRF) ruled out the issue of issuing permits by a cellular operator to use the frequencies already at their disposal for the deployment of 5G networks. The meeting of the commission itself has been postponed from March 10 to a later date. On March 6, concerning Vedomosti, Interfax reports.

The reason for the next delay in the start of the development of new generation communication networks in the Russian Federation is related to the objections of the FSB and Roscosmos, journalists’ sources say.

Unveiling the Challenges of 5G: How FSB and Roscosmos Hinder Progress in Russia

In the global race towards 5G technology adoption, countries worldwide are grappling with various challenges, whether regulatory, technological, or geopolitical. One such fascinating yet complex landscape can be found in Russia, where the implementation of 5G faces unique hurdles due to the involvement of entities like the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Roscosmos. These challenges shed light on the intricate interplay between innovation, security concerns, and bureaucratic processes within the Russian context

“State clients whose hardware works at adjoining frequencies are anxious about the possibility that 5G in the reaches recorded in the choice of the State Committee for Radio Frequencies will slow down their radio gear, remembering for space correspondence frameworks,” Vedomosti composes.

It was expected that the SCRF was to allow operators to use the 5G bands in which the second, third and fourth generation communications (2G, 3G, LTE) are currently operating. This became known at the end of February when the Russian authorities changed their minds about allocating new frequencies convenient for business and equipment for 5G. Security forces and special services opposed the distribution of convenient frequencies to businesses in the summer of 2019.

Understanding 5G: A Revolution in Connectivity

Before delving into the challenges, let’s grasp the significance of 5G technology. 5G represents the fifth generation of mobile network technology, promising unprecedented speed, capacity, and connectivity. It has the potential to revolutionize industries, enabling advancements in telemedicine, autonomous vehicles, smart cities, and more. This transformative impact makes the global race for 5G supremacy a strategic imperative for nations seeking to lead in the digital age.

At the end of 2019, MegaFon, Rostelecom, VimpelCom and MTS created a joint venture to build 5G networks. Before this, it was reported about the desire of the Ministry of Telecom and Mass Communications to introduce state control in a joint venture of 5G operators. In January, it became known that the ministry rejected the plan of the “big four” to create a joint venture. Officials are closer to some new “infrastructure operator for the construction of a single fifth-generation mobile communication network.”

The Russian Context: Ambitions and Obstacles

Russia, like many other nations, recognizes the strategic importance of 5G technology. However, its path towards implementing 5G is uniquely shaped by geopolitical, security, and regulatory factors. The involvement of the FSB, Russia’s principal security agency, underscores the nation’s approach towards technology development, emphasizing security and control. For now, Russians can try “Russian 5G” from MegaFon in Romania.

In November 2019, Dmitry Peskov, special representative of President Vladimir Putin for digital and technological development, told Fontanka that 5G networks would appear in St. Petersburg by 2022.

Role of FSB in 5G Implementation

The FSB’s involvement in 5G development in Russia is primarily driven by security concerns. The agency oversees telecommunications security and encryption standards, aiming to safeguard national interests against cyber threats and foreign interference. While ensuring cybersecurity is essential, the FSB’s stringent oversight can lead to delays and challenges for telecom operators and technology providers.

Challenges Imposed by Roscosmos

Surprisingly, Roscosmos, Russia’s space agency, also plays a role in hindering 5G progress. Roscosmos operates satellite communications systems crucial for 5G deployment. However, bureaucratic complexities and competing interests often slow down decision-making and coordination between Roscosmos and telecommunications providers. This can delay spectrum allocation and infrastructure deployment critical for 5G expansion.

Spectrum Allocation and Regulatory Hurdles

Another significant challenge facing 5G implementation in Russia is spectrum allocation and regulatory hurdles. The Russian government controls the allocation of radio frequencies necessary for 5G networks. Delays in spectrum auctions and complex licensing processes can impede the rollout of 5G services, hampering the competitiveness of Russian telecom companies on the global stage.

Geopolitical Considerations and International Relations

Russia’s approach to 5G is also shaped by geopolitical considerations and international relations. The competition for 5G dominance mirrors broader geopolitical rivalries, with Russia seeking to assert its technological capabilities amidst global power shifts. However, geopolitical tensions can complicate partnerships and collaborations essential for driving 5G innovation and infrastructure development.

Path Forward: Balancing Innovation and Security

To address these challenges, Russia must strike a delicate balance between innovation and security. The FSB’s role in ensuring cybersecurity must align with efforts to foster a conducive environment for technological advancement. Streamlining regulatory processes, improving coordination between government agencies, and promoting private sector involvement are crucial steps towards accelerating 5G deployment.

Lessons for the Global Community

The challenges faced by Russia in implementing 5G offer valuable lessons for the global community. They highlight the need for effective governance frameworks that promote innovation while addressing security concerns. International collaboration and information sharing are essential to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and foster a thriving 5G ecosystem worldwide.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities of 5G

In conclusion, the challenges encountered by Russia in adopting 5G underscore the intricate interplay between technology, security, and governance. The involvement of entities like the FSB and Roscosmos reflects Russia’s unique approach towards 5G development amidst broader geopolitical dynamics. As the world marches towards the 5G future, it is imperative to learn from these challenges and foster inclusive, secure, and innovative approaches to harness the transformative potential of 5G technology on a global scale.

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5G networks allow increasing the speed of mobile Internet up to several gigabits per second, which is ten times faster than the currently available communication generations in the Russian Federation, while the batteries of mobile devices will be discharged more slowly. 5G networks have already been deployed in several major US cities. In Europe, Switzerland is a pioneer, with 5G operating in select areas of Geneva, Lausanne, Bern and Zurich. In test mode, fifth-generation networks have been launched in seven cities in China. In the spring of 2019, South Korea became the first country to launch commercial 5G services. In total, there are already 24 countries in the world where 5G works in one way or another.