By Web Desk 
India’s leading telecom operator, Bharti Airtel, has entered into a multi-billion-dollar agreement with Swedish technology giant Ericsson for the supply of 4G and 5G equipment. This strategic move comes as part of Airtel’s ongoing efforts to enhance its network capabilities and provide cutting-edge services to its rapidly growing subscriber base.
Bolstering 5G Infrastructure
The agreement will support Airtel’s ambitious plans to expand its 5G services across India. With a subscriber base of over 90 million 5G users, the telecom operator aims to reconfigure its mid-band spectrum for broader and more reliable coverage. The equipment deployment under this contract is expected to begin in 2025, aligning with Airtel’s long-term network modernization goals .
Addressing Market Challenges
Ericsson’s new partnership with Airtel follows a challenging period marked by a 44% decline in its revenue from the Southeast Asian and Indian markets during 2024. However, the increasing demand for 5G in India, fueled by Airtel and Reliance Jio’s network expansions, has revitalized opportunities in the region. Airtel’s focus on fixed wireless access (FWA) and 5G standalone architecture further underscores the significance of this deal .
Competitive Landscape
Ericsson’s role in Airtel’s expansion positions it alongside key competitors like Nokia and Samsung, who are also heavily involved in India’s 5G ecosystem. This partnership builds on Ericsson’s recent $3.6 billion contract with Vodafone Idea, cementing its role as a pivotal player in India’s telecom transformation .
This collaboration exemplifies the fast-paced evolution of telecom networks in India, reflecting Airtel’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for enhanced connectivity and Ericsson’s resilience in a dynamic global market.