Sri Lanka is moving closer to a next-generation telecommunications revolution with SLT-Mobitel and Japan’s Rakuten Symphony joining forces to introduce the country’s first Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) pilot project. The initiative, which integrates both 4G and 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA) networks, is expected to transform Sri Lanka’s connectivity landscape, enhance competition, and accelerate the growth of its digital economy.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), SLT-Mobitel will deploy Rakuten Symphony’s advanced Open RAN solutions, including virtualised Centralised Units (CUs) and Distributed Units (DUs), along with pre-certified third-party 4G and 5G Radio Units (RUs). This marks a key milestone in Sri Lanka’s telecom modernization efforts, as Open RAN technology enables interoperability between different network equipment providers—reducing dependence on a single vendor and cutting long-term costs.
The project forms part of a broader global initiative spearheaded by Rakuten Mobile, Rakuten Symphony’s parent company, and supported by the Japanese Government, to promote Open RAN adoption across emerging markets. Similar projects have already been rolled out in India, Vietnam, Kuwait, and Kenya, making Sri Lanka among the first in South Asia to test this transformative model.
According to Rakuten Symphony President Sharad Sriwastawa, the partnership will help SLT-Mobitel achieve a leaner, more efficient network operation while reducing total cost of ownership and accelerating service delivery. “Adopting open network principles enables faster innovation and improved network outcomes, ultimately enhancing customer experience,” he said.
SLT-Mobitel Chief Operating Officer Sudharshana Geeganage described the partnership as a strategic step in strengthening Sri Lanka’s digital competitiveness. “This collaboration underscores SLT-Mobitel’s commitment to implementing next-generation technologies. The Open RAN trial will bring unprecedented flexibility, improved network performance, and greater innovation capability supporting our mission to advance Sri Lanka’s digital economy,” he noted.
Open RAN allows mobile networks to be built using hardware and software from multiple suppliers, rather than relying on proprietary systems from a single vendor. This open and modular approach is expected to reduce network rollout costs, enhance scalability, and stimulate local innovation. It also provides a pathway for Sri Lankan engineers and technology firms to participate in future telecom infrastructure development.
Rakuten Symphony’s collaboration is backed by achievements derived from Japan’s NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation) program, focusing on network automation and cloud-edge capabilities. The Sri Lankan pilot could pave the way for a nationwide Open RAN deployment, driving faster 5G adoption and enabling new digital services in sectors like education, healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing.
With this pioneering initiative, Sri Lanka stands poised to become a regional frontrunner in telecom innovation, ensuring wider connectivity, better affordability, and enhanced resilience in its national communications network.
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