The operator said that the LTE network became the first in the Commonwealth of Independent States and Central Asia. MTS Uzbekistan became one of few LTE network operators in the world. The first LTE network was launched in Sweden and currently such networks operate in Sweden, Norway, Germany and the UK.

LTE technology (Long-Term Evolution) is logic continuation of 3G network development. The technology can ensure significant (theoretically, hundred times) increase data transfer in existing mobile networks.

Launch of LTE (4G) in Uzbekistan opens new opportunities for MTS subscribers, who can use data transfer services at the speed of 100 megabit per second on their PCs and notebooks and carry out operations, which need high speed. For example, MTS-subscribers can download large video files within several seconds or watch High Definition (HD) videos.

Currently, 4G network operates in central parts of Tashkent city and the company plans to expand coverage area of 4G network to all Uzbekistan. The operator added that 3G network, launched in the end of 2008, development remains priority for the company. Currently, five large cities of Uzbekistan has 3G networks of MTS. By the end of 2011, the company is planning to coverall all regional centers of Uzbekistan with 3G network.

Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd (China) supplied equipment for LTE (4G) network construction in Uzbekistan. Huawei supplied base stations and controllers of fourth generation, switching sub-system and others. Chinese firm also provides technical support to 4G network in Uzbekistan and shares experience with MTS employees.

MTS Vice-President Oleg Raspopov said: “We are proud that we became one of the first operators in the CIS and Central Asia, which offers 4G services to its subscribers. Being leader in innovation, our company always intends to provide to our subscribers latest technologies in mobile communication and data transfer. Introducing new generation network in Uzbekistan, we are receiving unique experience, which will spread further for activities in all our markets.”