The three largest Ukrainian mobile communications operators have received licenses authorizing them to implement 4G technology (LTE) in the 1800 MHz band. According to reports of the operators, the National Commission for Communications and Informatization Regulation (NCCR) on April 12, 2018 issued licenses for the use of radio frequency spectrum in the 1800 MHz band to launch 4G communications from July 1, 2018.
Kyivstar, Vodafone Ukraine and lifecell won lots at a tender, according to the right of first refusal. The three companies bought lots of 25 MHz, 20 MHz and 15 MHz for UAH 1.325 billion, UAH 1.06 billion and UAH 795 million respectively. In addition, Kyivstar bought the fourth and sixth lots for UAH 612 million and UAH 900 million. Vodafone Ukraine bought the fifth lot for UAH 742 million.
As reported, the three operators after the tender held early March paid UAH 5.434 billion for 75 MHz in the 1800 MHz band for the right to deploy 4G communications standard. Earlier the companies paid UAH 2.456 billion for 40 MHz in the 2600 MHz band after a tender held at the end of January 2018 for the introduction of 4G. Then lifecell bought two lots for 15 MHz for UAH 909.25 million, Kyivstar – three lots for 15 MHz for UAH 916.3 million and Vodafone Ukraine – two lots for 10 MHz for UAH 631 million.
The operators plan to launch 4G in the 1800 MHz band in July 2018.
