Rakuten Symphony and SLT-MOBITEL have signed an MoU to launch a pilot project deploying an Open RAN network with 4G and 5G NSA/ SA sites in Sri Lanka. It will utilize Rakuten Symphony’s virtualized CU/DU infrastructure and pre-certified third-party 4G and 5G open Radio Units to advance SLT-MOBITEL’s network modernization efforts. It is part of a wider initiative led by Rakuten Mobile and supported by the Japanese government to accelerate global Open RAN adoption, strengthen telecom supply chain diversity, and drive innovation—an effort already underway in several countries. The Sri Lanka pilot will be among South Asia’s first Open RAN deployments and is expected to prepare the ground for a nationwide rollout. It aims to enhance SLT-MOBITEL’s network agility, efficiency, and scalability, improving connectivity and supporting Sri Lanka’s digital transformation.
Sharad Sriwastawa, President, Rakuten Symphony, noted that using open network principles and Rakuten’s technologies will help SLT-MOBITEL reduce costs, accelerate rollout, and improve network performance. He stated the company’s commitment to supporting one of South Asia’s first Open RAN deployments.
Sudharshana Geeganage, Chief Operating Officer, Mobitel, emphasized that the collaboration reflects SLT-MOBITEL’s commitment to next-generation technologies and leadership in South Asia’s Open RAN advancement. The trial will enhance network flexibility, drive innovation, improve customer value, and support Sri Lanka’s digital economy.
Rakuten Symphony and Rakuten Mobile are driving Open RAN innovation through NEDO-supported R&D, focusing on automated network quality assurance and edge cloud technologies to advance future communication networks.
