📡 Levira – Pioneer of Technology and Innovation in Estonia

Levira
May 27
2 min read

Celebrating 70 Years of Technological Advancement

As Levira celebrates its 70th anniversary, we reflect on a legacy built on innovation, infrastructure, and national impact. From the launch of Estonia’s first television broadcasts in 1955 to pioneering digital switchover, OTT streaming, 5G Broadcast, and AI-enabled services, Levira has consistently played a central role in shaping the country’s broadcast and telecommunications landscape. Our evolution mirrors Estonia’s own technological progress, from analog to digital, from terrestrial to satellite and IP-based networks, positioning Levira as a trusted enabler of resilient, future-ready media and communications solutions.

1955–1975: The Journey Begins

1955: Establishment of the Estonian Republican Radio Center and launch of television broadcasting in Tallinn from a 180 m tower.
1967: Launch of the second Estonian-language radio channel, "Vikerraadio", and creation of a medium wave synchronization network.
1974: Introduction of color television with the SECAM system.
1975–1980: Construction of the Tallinn TV Tower – a future hub for digital broadcasting.

1991–2000: New Beginnings and Technological Growth

1991: The Broadcasting Center becomes part of the state enterprise “Estonian Telecommunications” with the first FM transmitter installed at Tallinn TV Tower.
1996: ERSK AS is established, and its supervisory board starts operations.
1998: Shortwave broadcasts are discontinued, and radio programs move to FM frequencies and the internet. Modernization of low-power TV transmitters with 23 new units.
2000: Installation of a DAB transmitter for testing and acquisition of 49% of ERSK AS shares by Télédiffusion de France S.A. (TDF).

2003–2010: A New Era Under the Levira Brand

2004: Introduction of the Levira brand; on May 7, Estonian digital television airs for the first time.
2005: Launch of satellite broadcasting (SNG) services.
2006–2008: Establishment of three national digital terrestrial TV networks.
2010: Shutdown of analog TV transmission – Estonia fully transitions to digital broadcasting.

2012–2025: The Digital and Smart Future

2013: Launch of a self-service data center offering virtual servers for Linux, Solaris, and Windows.
2014: Introduction of OTT streaming capabilities for broadcasters.
2015: Start of HbbTV services.
2017: Addition of IoT solutions and AI-based production services.
2019: Launch of Levira’s first solar power plant near Uuemõisa.
2020: Key role in the production of the first WRC rally stage in Estonia.
2023: Testing of 5G broadcast and DAB+ for emergency communication during the Crevex crisis exercise.
2024: Acquisition of satellite communications company AA-Sat.
2025: "Pocetsiren" 5G Broadcast pilot project and Launches Levira Media Services Ltd in the UK

Levira – Connecting Estonia through Technology

Throughout its rich history, Levira has become the heart of Estonia’s broadcasting and telecommunications innovation. From radio signals to 5G and OTT services, our towers and platforms connect content to homes across the nation.