- Ericsson will manage Airtel’s national network, including 4G, 5G, and emerging services.
- The deal focuses on scaling advanced technologies like Fixed Wireless Access and Network Slicing across India.
What happened: Ericsson strengthens Airtel partnership for pan-India network
Ericsson has secured a multi-year Managed Services contract with Bharti Airtel to oversee its pan-India network. The agreement will see Ericsson manage services across Airtel’s 4G, 5G NSA, 5G SA, Fixed Wireless Access, Private Networks, and Network Slicing.
The deal strengthens a partnership that has lasted over 25 years. Ericsson will provide Network Operations Centre (NOC) support to Airtel, introducing intent-based operations to improve service management. This advanced approach aims to predict network needs in real-time, enhancing efficiency and service reliability.
Airtel’s Chief Technology Officer, Randeep Sekhon, said the collaboration would help the company build a future-ready network. He highlighted that the new technologies will support India’s growing data demands and offer customers a better experience. Sekhon added that the partnership is key to driving innovation as Airtel continues to expand its digital services across India.
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Why it’s important
This deal supports India’s rapid 5G rollout and Airtel’s ambition to expand nationwide. By using Ericsson’s intent-based NOC, Airtel can offer more advanced services while keeping the network efficient and reliable.
Ericsson’s role will help Airtel scale key services like Fixed Wireless Access and Network Slicing. These technologies will improve connectivity in underserved areas and offer customised services for businesses.
The agreement also deepens Ericsson’s influence in one of the world’s largest telecom markets. Andres Vicente, Head of Market Area Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India at Ericsson, said the deal would help Airtel unlock new service opportunities and revenue streams.
