Faroese Telecom brings 5G connectivity to all 18 islands

Faroese Telecom and Ericsson have announced the launch of a fully modernized 5G network covering all 18 rocky volcanic islands of the Faroe Islands.

Despite challenging geography, the modernized network provides everyone access to fast, low-latency connectivity. Additional services including enhanced mobile broadband through Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), and significantly higher voice call quality through Voice over LTE (VoLTE), are also being rolled out across the Faroe Islands.

"This partnership has been truly trailblazing – it's impressive to see such a remote community leading the way and setting benchmarks across the region when it comes to connectivity. We feel privileged to have been trusted as an exclusive technology and strategic partner to help make this possible, and we look forward to seeing new values unlocked for the Faroese population realized with these new capabilities," said Niclas Backlund, Head of Ericsson Denmark

According to Ericsson's press release, the 5G deployment is expected to revolutionize various sectors by possibly leveraging the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Particularly, the fisheries and aquaculture industry, which significantly contributes to the islands' economy, will benefit from enhanced safety measures, autonomous navigation, and efficient route monitoring. These advancements are anticipated to reduce fuel consumption and gas emissions, bolstering sustainability efforts.

Faroe Islands' non-standalone (NSA) 5G network leverages Ericsson's Cloud Core solutions, supported by Ericsson NFVI, and Ericsson 5G RAN products and solutions including the Ericsson Radio System portfolio that covers Massive MIMO and Ericsson Antenna System.

Commenting on this milestone, Símun Skaalum, Managing Director at Faroese Telecom, said, "Today, as we usher in the era of 5G across the Faroe Islands, we celebrate more than just connectivity. We embrace digital inclusion, ensuring that every resident, from the windswept cliffs to the hidden coves, has equal access to the transformative power of technology. Our partnership with Ericsson has transcended mere infrastructure; it's about bridging gaps, both geographical and digital."