Rakuten Mobile announced plans to deploy 5G base stations using radio units (RU) developed by Fujitsu as part of its 2025 network expansion strategy. The initiative will accelerate the rollout of Rakuten Mobile’s 5G Sub6 coverage, leveraging its fully virtualized, cloud-native Open RAN architecture. Fujitsu’s compact and energy-efficient radio units will support Rakuten Mobile’s efforts to scale its network while optimizing space and operational costs.
The RU model 44R21, which Rakuten Mobile will deploy, complies with O-RAN specifications set by the O-RAN ALLIANCE. The unit facilitates communication between base station distributed units (DUs) and centralized units (CUs) via a fronthaul interface, ensuring interoperability with multiple domestic and international vendors. This multi-vendor compatibility enables operators to diversify their supply chain and enhance network flexibility. Fujitsu’s proprietary technology also makes the RU compact and lightweight, reducing deployment complexity and power consumption. Rakuten Mobile will showcase the RU 44R21 at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona from March 3-6.
Looking ahead, Rakuten Mobile plans to use its virtualization technology and existing infrastructure to shorten deployment timelines and minimize costs. Rakuten Symphony, its global platform business, will collaborate with Fujitsu to explore international expansion opportunities and further promote Open RAN adoption worldwide. This partnership aligns with both companies’ commitment to driving innovation in mobile networks and enabling efficient, cost-effective 5G deployments.
• Rakuten Mobile to deploy 5G base stations with Fujitsu’s O-RAN compliant RU 44R21
• Expansion supports 5G Sub6 network growth in Japan
• Fujitsu’s compact and energy-efficient design optimizes deployment costs and space requirements
• Multi-vendor interoperability enhances supply chain resilience and flexibility
• Rakuten Mobile and Fujitsu to showcase the RU 44R21 at MWC 2025 in Barcelona
• Rakuten Symphony and Fujitsu to explore future global Open RAN collaborations
“We are excited to partner with Fujitsu to accelerate the rollout of high-performance, energy-efficient 5G base stations. This collaboration will enable us to deliver exceptional mobile services to even more of our customers,” said Sharad Sriwastawa, Co-CEO and CTO of Rakuten Mobile.
