- Technically, 5G SA is a complete 5G network version, where the entire infrastructure, from the core network to the radio broadcasting equipment, is built on 5G technology. This differs from 5G NSA (Non-standalone), which only upgrades the radio broadcasting part to 5G but still uses the existing 4G core network.

While 5G NSA speeds up data transmission, Viettel's 5G SA represents a much bigger leap forward, allowing the network operator to offer and customize telecommunications services more flexibly, meeting the actual needs of users at any given time.

Specifically, 5G SA networks are designed for the digital industrial environment and therefore integrate many advanced technologies. For example, Network Slicing allows for the operation of multiple specialized mobile networks on the same infrastructure, to meet the different connectivity needs of various device groups. In addition, Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) technology processes data directly at the base station, thereby reducing latency and significantly increasing network responsiveness.

* In which fields is 5G SA technology applied, Comrade?

- Viettel's 5G SA technology is considered the "key" to unlocking the era of smart industry. Visions of self-driving cars, automated factories, smart cities, and remote surgery, once seen as symbols of the future, can now be implemented in practice thanks to 5G SA. For example, self-driving cars require ultra-stable connections with extremely low latency even at high speeds; smart factories require managing and communicating with millions of devices simultaneously. In addition, environmental monitoring systems use sensors with low data transmission needs but must be energy-efficient. Or in the medical field, remote surgery requires high-speed connections, sharp images, and near-zero latency for doctors to perform precise procedures… Such requirements are almost impossible to fully meet with pre-5G technologies. Meanwhile, each application demands different connectivity capabilities. And with 5G SA, Viettel is able to provide services that are "tailored" to individual needs, at the exact time users need them.

5G SA technology also contributes to creating a digital infrastructure that facilitates smoother and faster operation of local governments at both levels. For individual users, 5G SA also opens up new service models. Thanks to Network Slicing, Viettel can create service packages for different needs: groups requiring high stability to avoid network congestion, groups needing low latency for self-driving cars or telemedicine applications. Private networks with high security serving national defense and security can also operate independently on the same 5G infrastructure system.

What has Viettel been doing to improve and expand its 5G SA network?

- Right from the launch of its 5G service, Viettel simultaneously deployed both 5G SA and 5G NSA technologies at 100% of its 5G base stations nationwide. This allowed Viettel to optimize the advantages of each technology and effectively meet the diverse needs of its customers. Specifically, 5G SA offers superior features such as low latency and support for larger networks, while 5G NSA provides approximately 30% wider coverage, making it ideal for general users.

Alongside expanding coverage, Viettel is also actively testing new technologies to maximize the potential of 5G SA. Most recently, Viettel will test RedCap technology in Vietnam in 2026. This is an ideal platform for IoT devices such as smart sensors, monitoring devices, or wearable watches like the Apple Watch.

In particular, Viettel has independently researched and manufactured the entire ecosystem of equipment for the 5G SA network, including gNodeB base stations, 5G core network systems, and vOCS 4.0 billing systems. This self-reliance allows Vietnam to fully master the technology, equipment, and network infrastructure, ready to enter a new growth cycle for telecommunications.

Of course, for the advantages of 5G SA to be realized in practice, there needs to be synchronization in policies, market trends, and actual needs. However, from a technological and infrastructure perspective, Viettel has prepared to the highest level.

* Comrade, what are Viettel Can Tho's plans for deploying 5G SA infrastructure in the near future, contributing to the digital transformation of Can Tho City?

- Viettel aims to play a leading role in the deployment of 5G SA infrastructure, with the goal of covering 99% of the population by 2030, alongside a strategy of integrating AI and developing green, sustainable services. This is an important step to promote national digital transformation and enhance Vietnam's competitiveness in the region.

In Can Tho City, Viettel was the first company to commercially deploy 5G, starting in October 2024. To date, Viettel Can Tho has built approximately 900 5G base stations, covering key areas. Coverage currently reaches 90-95% in the central area and 40-60% in suburban areas, and continues to expand.

Viettel's goal is to complete 5G coverage throughout Can Tho City before 2027. Specifically, by the end of 2025, it aims to achieve wide and stable coverage in urban and residential areas, facilitating access to digital applications for residents and businesses. During the 2026-2027 period, it will expand coverage to cover all areas from urban to rural, improving quality and deploying specialized 5G networks for industry, agriculture, healthcare, and education.

With these specific goals and determination, Viettel expects Can Tho to become the 5G application center of the Mekong Delta region, contributing to promoting the development of digital government, digital economy, and digital society in the city.

Thank you, comrade!