Bitel, a telecommunications operator in Peru, was established in 2011 as a subsidiary of the Vietnamese military-run Viettel Group. It began operations in October 2014 under the Bitel brand, marking Viettel's first international venture in a country wealthier than Vietnam. Bitel quickly positioned itself as a major player in the Peruvian telecommunications market by leveraging Viettel's extensive experience in building robust network infrastructures. The company was noted for its aggressive expansion strategy, which included skipping 2G technology and directly implementing 3G and 4G networks. Bitel's operations in Peru were characterised by rapid growth, driven by its focus on infrastructure development and competitive pricing strategies. By 2024, Bitel had established itself as a leader in Peru's telecommunications sector, with a significant market share and a comprehensive network coverage across the country.

Country
Peru
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Ownership
Viettel Group
Bitel Peru logo

3G Network

Bitel launched its 3G network in Peru in October 2014, utilising the UMTS B2 (1900 MHz PCS) and UMTS B8 (900 MHz GSM) frequency bands. This strategic deployment allowed Bitel to offer high-speed mobile broadband services efficiently, leveraging its existing infrastructure and spectrum resources. The introduction of 3G services was part of Bitel's initial network setup, which aimed to provide extensive coverage and connectivity to its subscribers. By focusing on 3G technology, Bitel was able to rapidly expand its network coverage, reaching approximately 80% of the country by 2024. This expansion was supported by Bitel's investment in Peru's largest fibre optic network, which spanned 24 regions and totalled 17,000 km.

Network Frequency Band Status Known UARFCNs
B2 (1900 MHz)
Active
9918
B8 (900 MHz)
Active
3088
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 3G Network
Launch

4G Network

Bitel's 4G network was launched in December 2016, initially using the LTE B8 (900 MHz) frequency band. The deployment covered 500 population centres with 1,750 4G base stations, providing extensive data coverage across Peru. Bitel further expanded its 4G services by utilising additional frequency bands, including LTE B2 (1900 MHz PCS), LTE B7 (2600 MHz), LTE B38 (TD 2600 MHz), LTE B40 (TD 2300 MHz), and LTE B66 (1700/2100 MHz). These deployments enhanced Bitel's overall LTE coverage, particularly in major cities like Lima. In 2023, Bitel secured additional spectrum in the 1700 MHz and 2300 MHz bands, investing approximately USD 600 million to extend 4G coverage to 3,825 locations with limited or no service. This expansion was part of Bitel's commitment to improving rural connectivity and increasing its market presence.

4G Frequency Bands
Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
B2 (1900 MHz)
Active
1115
B7 (2600 MHz)
Active
3350
B8 (900 MHz)
15
Active
3700
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 4G Network
Launch