Turkey's 5G Leap: Tender Set for October Launch

Turkey is gearing up to launch its anticipated 5G frequency tender in October, aiming to provide initial service by 2026, according to the nation's transport and infrastructure minister. Abdulkadir Uraloglu revealed collaboration with Turkey's predominant telecom firms and a study of European 5G frameworks as part of preparation efforts.

Three major operators—state-managed Turkcell, Turk Telekom, and Vodafone's local division—are expected to participate. The government plans to publish tender details within the month and conduct the tender in October. "We aim to spread 5G coverage nationwide a few years following the first signal in 2026," the minister stated.

While initially hoping for an August tender, a presidential decree now sets the focus for October, involving 11 frequency packages valued between $50 million and $425 million across 700 MHz and 3.5 GHz bands. This initiative includes the extension of current mobile network licenses expiring in 2029, with operators paying 5% of yearly revenues.

(With inputs from agencies.)