CETIN Hungary, in partnership with MVM Net, has successfully implemented two mobile-operator-independent 5G test projects — one in an urban environment and another in an agricultural setting — demonstrating the future of shared 5G infrastructure.

The Challenge

The goal of the pilot was to explore how fifth-generation (5G) mobile networks can be economically and sustainably deployed in different environments, such as city centres and agricultural areas, and later scaled nationwide.

With 5G networks requiring dense small cell installations every 100–150 meters, finding a cost-efficient and environmentally responsible approach is essential. To test this concept, the Digitális Jólét Nonprofit Ltd. launched an EU-funded public procurement, awarded to MVM Net Ltd. in cooperation with CETIN Hungary Ltd., the neutral, integrated infrastructure provider.

The CETIN Solution

CETIN Hungary delivered two 5G small cell test environments showcasing how service-provider-independent networks can support diverse use cases:

• Urban environment — Kecskemét city centre:
  CETIN deployed an independent 5G small cell network integrated with the city’s public lighting infrastructure, providing efficient coverage without the need for additional masts or complex installations.
• Agricultural environment — Mezőhegyes:
  At the National Stud Farm and Agricultural Company (Nemzeti Ménesbirtok és Tangazdaság Ltd.), CETIN built a dedicated 5G test network supporting digital agriculture applications. The site functions as a smart farm model, testing how advanced connectivity can improve agricultural automation, data collection, and efficiency.

The Results

The pilots demonstrated that multi-operator small cell networks can deliver reliable, high-capacity 5G coverage in both densely populated and specialised industrial or agricultural environments.

Future deployment of such networks will be key to:

• Enhancing connectivity in crowded areas like stadiums, festivals, tourist zones, or large residential buildings
• Supporting high-capacity use cases in agriculture, logistics, and industrial operations
• Reducing environmental impact through shared infrastructure

 

The Impact

The tests confirmed that shared, neutral-host 5G networks are a practical way forward — enabling operators to focus on services rather than duplicating infrastructure investments. This approach not only reduces costs but also aligns with sustainability and efficiency goals.

“The results clearly show that economic and environmentally responsible 5G deployment depends on shared infrastructure models,” said the CETIN Hungary team. “CETIN is uniquely positioned to deliver such service-provider-independent network solutions.”