NTT Docomo to install 10,000 5G base stations by FY2026

NTT Docomo is accelerating its 5G infrastructure deployment to address connectivity issues in crowded urban areas. The company plans to install more than 10,000 5G base stations by the end of fiscal year 2026. This expansion aims to improve “perceived quality” rather than just raw speed, focusing on maintaining stable connections during mobility and in high-traffic locations like major railway lines and terminal stations.

A key strategic goal is the transition to 5G Standalone (SA) architecture. Docomo aims to reach a state where “5G area = SA-compatible area” within fiscal year 2027. This transition was previously delayed due to older equipment that was structurally incompatible with SA, but the company is currently fast-tracking the replacement of these legacy devices.

To combat traffic surges following the pandemic, Docomo is also repurposing the 800MHz band from its retiring 3G service to 4G, which has already helped alleviate congestion in approximately 80% of high-traffic locations. The company is prioritizing resource allocation in major metropolitan hubs, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya, to ensure high-speed performance in densely populated zones.