VimpelCom brings LTE to Moscow

European operator VimpelCom has launched LTE in Moscow. The services are initially accessible within the central Sadovoye Ring area of the city. The operator expects LTE services to be available throughout the Russian capital by the end of 2013.

The operator called on Swedish kit vendor Ericsson for the technology to enable the launch.

“We are fully aware of the importance of providing reliable, high-speed mobile internet connections, thus meeting our subscribers’ expectations,” said Kjersti Wiklund, COO at VimpelCom.

“The Moscow region is a number one priority for investments to significantly improve mobile internet quality, and the launch of our LTE network in Moscow is just the first part of a large-scale strategic project that will see LTE services deployed across Russia.”

Ericsson said the deal builds on a long-term strategic business relationship with VimpelCom.

“High-speed mobile internet is becoming essential to the lives of consumers, and we are committed to supporting VimpelCom with advanced solutions that will enhance the consumer experience,” said Dmitry Maselsky, head of Ericsson Russia.

Existing Russian LTE operators include MegaFon, MTS and Yota.