Melita Limited, originally known as Melita Cable, is a telecommunications company based in Malta. Established in 1992, the company has evolved from a cable television provider to a comprehensive telecommunications operator offering cable television, mobile telephone, broadband internet, and fixed-line telephone services. In 2010, Melita became the first company in Malta to offer high-definition television through its Melita NetBox digital set-top box. Over the years, Melita has undergone several ownership changes. In February 2016, it was acquired by private equity investment funds Apax Partners France (now Seven2) and Fortino Capital. Later, on 23 May 2019, EQT AB acquired Melita.

Country
Malta
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Melita Malta logo

3G Network

Melita launched its 3G network in Malta in Feb 2009. The network operated on the 2100 MHz frequency band (later adding U900), providing mobile broadband services across the island. This launch marked Melita's entry into the mobile telecommunications market, complementing its existing services in cable television and broadband internet.

Network Frequency Band Status
B1 (2100 MHz)
Active
B8 (900 MHz)
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 3G Network
Launch

4G Network

Melita commenced its 4G LTE services in May 2018, initially in Valletta, and rapidly expanded coverage across Malta. By the end of 2018, the network had achieved nationwide coverage, making 4G services available to both prepaid and postpaid customers. The 4G network operated on the 1800 MHz frequency band (LTE B3), providing improved internet speeds and connectivity. However, on 5 August 2024, the LTE B3 frequency was removed from Melita's network, and the LTE B20 (800 MHz DD) frequency was added. Following a partial refarm of 3G, a 2100 MHz band was added.

4G Frequency Bands
Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
B1 (2100 MHz)
10
Active
350
B20 (800 MHz)
10
Active
6400
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 4G Network
Launch

5G Network

Melita began its journey towards 5G technology in 2018 by upgrading its mobile network with Ericsson's state-of-the-art infrastructure, making it 5G-ready. The company conducted limited 5G trials across selected locations using existing frequencies, with the trials starting in 2020. Melita officially launched its nationwide 5G network in May 2021, becoming one of the first countries in the world with comprehensive 5G coverage. The network utilised the 5G NR frequency bands n78 (3500 MHz) and n258 (mmWave 26 GHz) to deliver high-speed internet with download speeds of up to 1 Gbps.

Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status
n78 (3500 MHz)
100
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 5G Network
Launch