Dell’Oro Group forecasts steady RAN revenue growth through 2030

Dell’Oro Group forecasts worldwide radio access network (RAN) revenues to grow at a 1 percent compound annual growth rate through 2030 after stabilization in 2025, following a revenue decline from 2021 to 2024. The outlook matters for planning wireless capex and procurement tied to 5G, AI RAN, Cloud RAN, private wireless, and early 6G deployments.

Market overview

The report says the RAN market entered a phase of stability after a nearly $9 billion revenue decline between 2021 and 2024. It states the market stabilized in 2025 and reported two consecutive quarters of year-over-year growth in 1Q 2026.

Key findings

Dell’Oro Group projects worldwide RAN revenues will grow at a 1 percent CAGR through 2030. The forecast is described as supported by investments in 5G and by emerging opportunities in AI RAN, Cloud RAN, private wireless networks, and early 6G deployments.

In the report’s discussion of outcomes, Stefan Pongratz said, “While our base case assumes RAN revenue will remain broadly flat over the forecast period, alternative outcomes are possible.” He added, “The more optimistic scenario reflects a larger role for mobile networks in the AI era as traffic patterns evolve and machines comprise a greater share of overall traffic. Conversely, excess mobile capacity and muted carrier revenue growth could weigh on the market.”

Spending alignment and technology drivers

The report states RAN spending is expected to remain closely aligned with wireless capital expenditures, accounting for approximately 20 to 25 percent of total wireless capex throughout the forecast period. It also says declining 4G revenues will continue to be offset by ongoing 5G deployments and the initial wave of 6G investments.

It further states investments in AI RAN, 6G, Massive MIMO, Cloud RAN, private wireless, and small cells are expected to expand through 2030. The report highlights technology coverage across Cloud RAN, small cells, and Massive MIMO.

Forecast scope

The report covers the RAN market by region including North America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific, China, and Caribbean & Latin America. It also includes tables for manufacturers’ revenue and unit shipments for 6G, 5G NR, 5G NR Sub 7 GHz, 5G NR mmW, and LTE base stations.

It is identified as the Mobile RAN 5-Year July 2026 Forecast Report and is described as offering a complete overview of the RAN market, plus coverage of Cloud RAN, small cells, and Massive MIMO.

This Analyst Signals brief reflects a neutral, fact-based summary of the original research note.