Automating Access to Infrastructure: Rostelecom and VimpelCom Digitize Inter-Operator Coordination
Russian telecom operators are increasingly collaborating with one another. That trend is simplifying operational processes and helping build a more unified ecosystem for interaction across the telecommunications market.
Rostelecom and VimpelCom have completed the integration of their IT systems, enabling automated approval of access requests to Rostelecom's linear cable infrastructure. Applications can now be submitted and processed without human involvement. The companies expect labor requirements and application review times to fall by 30%. The initiative builds on a broader strategic partnership that previously digitized inter-operator resource-leasing processes.
What Has Changed?
According to Rostelecom, the entire workflow, from application submission to final response, is now fully automated. The system independently routes requests and tracks their status throughout the process. No manual intervention from personnel is required.
That change not only reduces the workload on employees but also eliminates delays associated with administrative approval procedures. Data is transmitted through secure channels that comply with current information-security standards. This ensures reliable interaction between the systems and minimizes the risk of errors.
Saving Time and Reducing Costs
The operators say the new solution has already delivered measurable operational and economic benefits. Request-processing times have accelerated, process transparency has improved for all participants, and coordination between operators has become more efficient during network infrastructure development. The two companies also plan to extend the integration to additional business processes in the near future.
"When building fiber-optic networks, operators make extensive use of one another's infrastructure, access to which is governed by non-discriminatory access rules. Until recently, obtaining technical specifications required complex paper-based workflows. Today, however, infrastructure owners, including Rostelecom, are moving to digital solutions. This year, we have created a digital bridge between Rostelecom's CRM platform and the 1C:Workorder fixed-network construction management system, allowing operators to request infrastructure access and receive responses directly through the construction-control platform while eliminating paperwork. This became the first solution of its kind on the market and has significantly improved efficiency in interactions between operators and infrastructure owners," says Denis Makarov, Director of Fixed Network Construction at VimpelCom.
Benefits for All
Although the primary impact of automating approval procedures falls on telecom operators, end users are also expected to benefit. The solution should accelerate the process of connecting residential buildings, offices, social facilities, and newly developed districts to broadband and data services.
It is also important to view the project within the context of broader government policy. Back in 2023, the Ministry of Digital Development proposed simplifying operator access to linear infrastructure owned by adjacent sectors, including transportation, energy, and utilities. The goal was to reduce costs across the telecommunications industry.
A Strong Example for the Market
In December 2025, the State Duma adopted legislation allowing telecom operators to share infrastructure in settlements with populations below 1,000 residents and along sections of federal highways. In 2026, the Russian government approved the framework for compiling the list of eligible territories. Together, these measures created additional conditions for more efficient use of existing telecommunications infrastructure nationwide.
The Rostelecom-VimpelCom initiative could serve as a model for other operators. Shared use of network infrastructure simplifies many complex operational challenges and supports the broader development of telecommunications networks.
