Bite Latvija to introduce an atomic clock in its network in 2027
Telecom operator Bite Latvija plans to add an atomic clock to its mobile network in the first half of 2027 so the network keeps running when GPS signal is unavailable. Its Lithuanian sister company, Bite Lietuva, bought such a device this autumn.
Mobile operator Bite Latvija plans to introduce an atomic clock in its network in the first half of 2027, providing precise time even when the GPS satellite signal is disrupted or unavailable. The company sees the move as a way to strengthen the resilience of its communications infrastructure.
Why the network needs precise time
A mobile network requires very accurate synchronisation between its base stations. Precise time is normally obtained from the GPS satellite signal, but when that signal disappears or becomes unreliable, an alternative time source is needed.
The Lithuanian experience
Bite Latvija and Bite Lietuva belong to the Bite Group and share technological expertise. This autumn Bite Lietuva purchased an OSA 3350 caesium atomic clock made by the Swiss company Oscilloquartz. Investment in a single device exceeds 110,000 euros. Even if the GPS signal vanished completely, the clock could keep the time deviation within 100 nanoseconds for at least 40 days; under normal conditions, this accuracy can be maintained for up to 60 days.
In Lithuania the device is already installed, and full use in the network is due to begin in October. It will become the central precise time source for the company's mobile network, synchronising almost 1,600 communication towers.
Plans in Latvia
Aleksandrs Beļajevs, head of the Radio Network Department at Bite Latvija, says GPS interference and other hybrid threats show that the resilience of critical infrastructure cannot be considered within the borders of a single country. In his view, the Lithuanian colleagues' experience allows the solution to be introduced with practically tested knowledge.
An atomic clock does not remove GPS interference. Its role is to provide an independent and highly precise time source when the GPS time signal is unavailable or unreliable, keeping base stations synchronised and the mobile network stable.
Network investment
Bite Latvija has already invested seven million euros this year in building new base stations. In total, the company has planned to invest 20 million euros in network development in 2026, covering new stations, modernisation of existing ones, expansion of 5G coverage, and development of optical infrastructure, network systems and technical equipment.
