Türkiye accelerates preparations for 5G rollout, eyes 2026 launch

Türkiye is fast-tracking its nationwide 5G rollout, aiming for full transition to the next-generation network by 2026. Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu recently announced the expedited preparations for this significant technological upgrade.

The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has initiated efforts for an auction planned for next year, which will be a key step toward achieving this target.

Strategic planning for 5G

According to BTK’s 2024-2028 Strategic Plan broadband internet remains the fastest-growing electronic communication service in Türkiye. The rapid growth in the information sector and increased usage are driving the need for more spectrum and the deployment of new-generation communication networks, such as 5G and beyond.

Already introduced at Istanbul Airport, 5G technology is set to expand nationwide. The strategic plan includes monitoring and contributing to international standards for 5G and future networks, such as those established by ITU and 3GPP, while encouraging sector participation.

Additionally, research and development, and product development initiatives will be supported to strengthen the presence of domestic and national products in future networks, including 6G.

Emphasis on domestic production and technological independence

The strategic plan emphasizes Türkiye’s focus on producing 5G-related equipment and infrastructure domestically. The aim is to increase technological independence and contribute to the local economy by encouraging the production of mobile communication technology by local designers, engineers, and workers.

The transition to 5G is viewed as a significant opportunity to reduce reliance on foreign technology and enhance local innovation.

Türkiye’s broader development strategy, as outlined in the 12th Development plan, emphasizes supporting pioneering technologies that drive green and digital transformation. These include artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, blockchain, 5G and 6G, robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles, and renewable energy technologies.

Preparations for a national 5G auction

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, in collaboration with BTK, is moving forward with preparations for the upcoming 5G auction scheduled for next year.

The auction is a critical step toward enabling the deployment of 5G infrastructure across Türkiye. The focus is on improving the quality of R&D projects, creating a regulatory framework that supports local ecosystem development, and ensuring that all stages of 5G network deployment, from design to production, involve substantial national contributions.

While preparations for 5G continue, BTK is also monitoring national and international developments related to 6G technology. This includes expanding broadband services via satellite, particularly with low-orbit satellites, to ensure nationwide coverage. Localization efforts in these areas are planned to begin in the near future.