Veon Ltd.’s partnership with Airspan Networks Holdings LLC marks a pivotal moment in the enhancement of Ukraine’s communication networks, signaling a commitment to resilient infrastructure and digital innovation. The collaboration, cemented through a Memorandum of Understanding, promises to leverage cutting-edge technologies like Open RAN and Air-to-Land solutions to build robust networks resilient to extreme conditions. The focus on both public and private sector opportunities hints at a broad scope and substantial investment that could transform Ukraine’s digital landscape.
The Role of Advanced Technologies
The introduction of Open RAN and Air-to-Land technologies is expected to play a crucial role in this transformation. Open RAN, or open radio access network, represents a shift from traditional, proprietary radio access network infrastructure toward more flexible and interoperable network architectures. This enables network operators to mix and match equipment from different vendors, fostering innovation and reducing costs. For Ukraine, which has faced unique geographical and political challenges, the agility and resilience of Open RAN technology could prove invaluable.
Airspan’s Air-to-Land solutions additionally offer innovative approaches to connectivity, using airborne platforms to establish communication channels in challenging terrains or post-disaster scenarios. This technology ensures that communication remains uninterrupted during critical times, which is essential for both emergency services and daily operations. The integration of satellite connectivity within the Open RAN framework further augments these capabilities, providing a comprehensive and resilient network infrastructure to support Ukraine’s growing digital needs.
Commitment to Economic Growth and Stability
Veon’s financial commitment, underlined by a pledge to invest $1 billion from 2025 to 2027, further underscores its dedication to Ukraine’s development. Veon CEO Kaan Terzioglu has emphasized the importance of supporting the country’s resilience and rebuilding efforts through substantial investments aimed at upgrading and expanding mobile networks. These upgrades are anticipated to enhance connectivity, drive economic growth, and improve quality of life for Ukrainian citizens.
Economic indicators reflect significant growth for Veon, with shares increasing by over 97% in the past year. The company’s impressive fourth-quarter 2024 report, showing a sales growth of 4.7% year-over-year, underscores the positive impact of its operations in Ukraine and other markets like Pakistan. Direct digital revenues saw a remarkable 42.4% rise, attributed to robust market performance and effective digital strategies. For 2025, Veon forecasts a local currency revenue growth of 12%-14%, EBITDA growth between 13%-15%, and Capex intensity ranging from 17%-19%, which are promising metrics for Ukraine’s telecommunications future.
Future Prospects and Potential Impact
Veon Ltd.’s recent alliance with Airspan Networks Holdings LLC represents a significant advancement in Ukraine’s communication infrastructure, exemplifying their dedication to enhancing both resilience and digital progress. This collaboration, formalized by a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to utilize state-of-the-art technologies such as Open RAN and Air-to-Land solutions. These innovations will help establish sturdy networks capable of withstanding extreme conditions. By targeting opportunities in both the public and private sectors, the partnership indicates a wide-ranging, substantial investment that has the potential to dramatically reshape Ukraine’s digital future. This commitment not only focuses on improving immediate communications but also on laying a robust foundation for long-term technological growth. Consequently, the combination of Veon Ltd.’s strategic vision and Airspan Networks’ innovative solutions is poised to bring about major advancements in the nation’s connectivity and overall digital landscape.
