Ericsson, a global leader in 5G technology, has been awarded a multi-year, multi-billion dollar deal by Bharti Airtel for the deployment of 4G and 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions across its India operations. This extension of their strategic partnership marks another milestone in the companies' collaboration, which spans over 25 years. The new agreement will see Ericsson playing a pivotal role in transforming Airtel's network to meet the increasing demand for high-speed, reliable connectivity in the region.

Ericsson’s Role in Enhancing Airtel’s Network

The deal will enable Airtel to deploy centralized RAN and Open RAN-ready solutions aimed at providing a wider coverage and improved network capacity. These technological advancements will ensure that Airtel customers experience seamless connectivity, with enhanced speed and reliability, especially in high-demand areas. Moreover, Ericsson will be responsible for upgrading the software of Airtel’s existing 4G radios, thereby extending the life cycle of their current infrastructure and optimizing the customer experience further.

The Strategic Partnership

In a statement, Randeep Sekhon, the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Bharti Airtel, expressed that this collaboration underscores Airtel's commitment to network excellence. According to Sekhon, the strategic deployment of latest technologies such as Open RAN will not only strengthen Airtel’s 4G network but also lay the foundation for future 5G deployments. This ensures that Airtel is well-equipped to meet the growing demand for next-generation mobile services and innovative use cases emerging with 5G technology.

Ericsson’s Expertise in 5G Technology

Ericsson, which currently powers 170 live 5G networks in over 70 countries, is recognized as a leader in 5G technology. The company has been ranked as a leader in the 5G network infrastructure market by Frost Radar™ for four consecutive years, further solidifying its market position. Additionally, Ericsson has been ranked as a **leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for 5G, which highlights its technology leadership and commitment to innovation in the rapidly evolving telecom sector.

A Long-Standing Relationship

The extended agreement is a testament to the trust and collaboration shared by Airtel and Ericsson over the past quarter-century. This partnership has consistently supported every generation of mobile communication in India, and it continues to drive the country’s digital transformation. As Andres Vicente, the Head of Ericsson South-east Asia, Oceania, and India, stated, this deal represents a shared vision between the two companies to build a robust 4G and 5G infrastructure that meets the demands of the Indian customer base.

Looking to the Future

As 5G use cases continue to emerge, both Airtel and Ericsson are committed to working closely to deliver enhanced user experiences. Airtel’s goal to provide exceptional customer service will be supported by the latest 4G and 5G solutions, ensuring that its network remains competitive and scalable to accommodate future demands. This partnership serves as a strong example of the growing importance of network transformation in a 5G-first world, where connectivity is a critical driver of economic growth and social development.

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