Bharti Airtel has announced a strategic partnership with Ericsson to deploy advanced 5G Core network solutions, enhancing its ability to deliver next-generation connectivity across India. This collaboration is aimed at supporting Airtel’s transition to a full-scale 5G Standalone (SA) network in the near future.
The agreement covers multiple network elements, including packet core, signaling, charging, and policy solutions, which will bolster Airtel’s network capacity and pave the way for innovative 5G applications.
Key Highlights of the Partnership
- Seamless 5G Evolution: The deployment of Ericsson’s 5G Core solutions will enable Airtel to gradually shift towards a 5G SA network, unlocking superior network performance and low-latency applications.
- Monetization Through Network Slicing: Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core will allow Airtel to leverage network slicing technology, enabling tailored services for consumers and enterprises.
- Enhanced Charging and Policy Management: The introduction of Ericsson’s Charging and Policy solution will optimize Airtel’s ability to manage and monetize 5G services efficiently.
- Long-Term Collaboration: Airtel and Ericsson share a longstanding relationship of over 25 years, with Ericsson having been a key supplier for Airtel’s mobile communication networks.
Leadership Remarks
Randeep Sekhon, CTO of Bharti Airtel, emphasized the importance of the partnership in driving Airtel’s long-term 5G vision, stating, “Ericsson’s 5G Core solutions will play a pivotal role in enhancing our network’s capacity and efficiency, ultimately delivering differentiated services to our customers.”
Andres Vicente, Head of Market Area Southeast Asia, Oceania & India, Ericsson, highlighted the significance of this deployment, adding, “This collaboration marks a critical step in making Airtel’s network 5G Standalone-ready, allowing them to introduce new and innovative use cases in the Indian market.”
Airtel’s 5G Expansion and Market Position
Bharti Airtel continues to lead India’s digital transformation, with its network covering over two billion people across 15 countries. The company has positioned itself as a frontrunner in India’s 5G rollout, offering high-speed 4G/5G mobile broadband, cloud solutions, cybersecurity services, and IoT applications.
By integrating Ericsson’s latest 5G Core technology, Airtel is strengthening its infrastructure to support India’s growing demand for high-speed connectivity, further accelerating the country’s shift towards digital innovation.
