The global race for 6G dominance is heating up, with countries like China, the US, South Korea, and Japan investing billions in nextgeneration wireless technology. But where does Russia stand in this highstakes competition?
With 5G still in its early stages in Russia, many wonder: Is Russia developing 6G? Does it have the fastest 6G technology?
In this indepth article, we’ll explore:
✔ Russia’s current progress in 6G research
✔ How it compares to global leaders (China, US, EU)
✔ Key players in Russia’s 6G development
✔ Challenges holding Russia back
✔ When Russia could deploy 6G
Let’s find out if Russia is a 6G contender or falling behind.
What Is 6G? Why Does It Matter?
Before diving into Russia’s status, let’s recap what 6G is and why it’s a gamechanger:
Speed: 100 times faster than 5G, up to 1 terabit per second (Tbps).
Latency: Microsecondlevel delays (nearinstant response)
AI Integration: Selfoptimizing networks with machine learning
Terahertz (THz) Bands: Ultrahighfrequency wireless signals
Holographic & 3D Communication: Advanced VR/AR and telepresence
Although 6G is anticipated to go on sale in 2030, research is already being conducted all over the world.
Russia’s 6G Progress: Is It Leading or Lagging?
1. Russia’s 5G Delay – A Roadblock for 6G?
Unlike China and the US, Russia’s 5G rollout has been slow due to:
Sanctions limiting access to Western telecom equipment.
Limited spectrum availability (most 5G frequencies are used by the military).
Lack of domestic 5G chip production.
Since 6G builds on 5G infrastructure, Russia’s struggles with 5G could delay its 6G ambitions.
2. Russia’s 6G Research & Key Players
Despite 5G challenges, Russia has started 6G research through:
a) Skolkovo Institute of Science & Technology, or Skoltech
Leading 6G research in Russia with AIpowered wireless networks.
Partnering with Huawei (China) for joint 6G projects.
b) Rostelecom & Russian Academy of Sciences
Exploring THz frequencies for future 6G networks.
Testing quantum communications for ultrasecure 6G.
c) MTS (Mobile TeleSystems)
Russia’s largest telecom operator investing in 6G trials.
Collaborating with Ericsson (Sweden) before sanctions.
3. Russia’s 6G Breakthroughs (So Far)
In 2021, Russia declared that it would support a 6G research program with ₽30 billion (about $330 million).
2022: Skoltech achieved data transmission in the 150 GHz band (early 6G research).
Rostec asserted advancements in 6G satellite communications in 2023.
However, no major speed records like China’s 206 Gbps tests have been reported.
What Is the Difference Between Russia and the World’s 6G Leaders?
| Country | 6G Progress | Max Test Speed | Key Players |
| China | Leader (Most Patents) | 206 Gbps | Huawei, ZTE |
| USA | Strong R&D | 100+ Gbps | Qualcomm, Apple |
| South Korea | Fastest Commercial Target (2028) | 50+ Gbps | Samsung, LG |
| Japan | Advanced THz Research | 100 Gbps | NTT Docomo |
| Russia | Early Stages | No public speed tests | Skoltech, Rostelecom |
Verdict: Russia is not yet a leader in 6G, but it has started research.
Challenges Holding Russia Back in 6G
1. Sanctions and the absence of foreign technology
Bans on Western semiconductors (Intel, Qualcomm) hurt telecom development.
After leaving Russia, Nokia and Ericsson limited their cooperation on 5G and 6G.
2. Domestic Tech Still Catching Up
Russia lacks local 6G chip manufacturers (relies on China).
No major telecom equipment rivals like Huawei or Samsung.
3. Military Use of Critical 6G Frequencies
The THz spectrum needed for 6G is largely reserved for defense, slowing civilian research.
4. Brain Drain & Funding Issues
Many Russian scientists have left due to geopolitical tensions.
6G funding (~$330M) is small compared to China’s $1B+ investments.
Will Russia Deploy 6G by 2030?
Positive Scenario: If relations with China improve, Russia might conduct early 6G trials by 2028–2030.
Realistic Scenario: Given 5G delays, Russia may lag behind global leaders, with full 6G arriving after 2030.
Possible Outcomes:
✔ If Russia partners with China: Could access Huawei’s 6G tech for faster rollout.
❌ If isolated by sanctions: May fall further behind in 6G innovation.
Conclusion: Does Russia Have the Fastest 6G?
No—Russia does not currently have the fastest 6G technology. While it has started research, it lags behind China, the US, South Korea, and Japan in:
6G speed tests
Patents & investments
Commercial readiness
However, if Russia strengthens ties with China and boosts domestic R&D, it could become a secondary player in the 6G race.
Key Takeaways:
Russia is in early 6G research but far behind global leaders.
Sanctions and 5G delays are major obstacles.
Without breakthroughs, 6G may arrive later than 2030 in Russia.
South Korea and the United States are not far behind China as the 6G leader.
