‘New phase’ in digital development: Regulator greenlights Viva Armenia 5G development

A regulatory body has allocated radiofrequencies to Viva Armenia for providing broader coverage of mobile broadband 5G technology across the nation in a move lauded by authorities as marking “a new chapter” in the country’s digital development. 

Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, in a statement on social media, said that the Public Services Regulatory Commission has allocated the 2300-2350MHz and 2350-2400MHz spectrum to Viva Armenia for a 10-year term to develop 5G across Armenia. The company has transferred 2,5 billion drams to the state budget, Hayrapetyan said.

According to the minister, Viva Armenia’s obligations under the deal include ensuring mobile internet coverage of 98% of highways, at least 10% with 5G. Within three years of commissioning every new highway, the company will provide coverage of 98% of the highways with mobile internet, and 10% with 5G. In three years, 20% of territories of the cities of Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor and Kapan will be covered with 5G, while full coverage with 5G will be provided in the Engineering City, the Zvartnots Airport, Gyumri Airport and Kapan Airport and all border crossing points. Furthermore, in 5 years 40% of the abovementioned 4 cities, as well as the entire territory of the Academic City will be covered with 5G. In 7 years the company will have ensured 5G technology in 60% of every urban community in the country. 

“This step marks a new phase on the path of Armenia’s digital development,” Hayrapetyan said.