Gurgaon: Nokia has signed a multi-year agreement with Bharti Airtel to deploy 4G and 5G equipment in key regions of India. This deal, estimated to be worth billions, will play a critical role in expanding Airtel’s network infrastructure and upgrading its capabilities.
Under the agreement, Nokia will provide equipment from its 5G AirScale portfolio, including base stations, baseband units, and Massive MIMO radios powered by ReefShark System-on-Chip technology. The technology aims to enhance Airtel’s network capacity and efficiency while supporting the ongoing transition to 5G.
In addition to deploying 5G infrastructure, Nokia will upgrade Airtel’s 4G network with advanced multiband radios and baseband units that are 5G-ready, ensuring seamless scalability for future needs. Nokia will also integrate its AI-driven MantaRay Network Management system for efficient network monitoring, deployment, and optimization.
This collaboration comes as India’s telecom sector witnesses rapid 5G adoption, with major operators focusing on infrastructure modernization to cater to growing demand. Airtel’s efforts to expand its network are part of its broader strategy to deliver enhanced connectivity while reducing environmental impact.
Both companies have highlighted their commitment to sustainability, with Nokia and Airtel recently launching the Green 5G Initiative. This program seeks to improve the energy efficiency of telecom networks and align with Airtel’s emission reduction goals.
Nokia’s partnership with Airtel spans over two decades, covering various generations of network technology, including 2G, 3G, and 4G. The current expansion underlines the importance of long-term collaborations in shaping India’s telecom landscape, particularly as the country aims to lead in 5G adoption and innovation.
This deal reflects the growing emphasis on strengthening digital infrastructure in India, with Airtel positioning itself to compete more effectively in the evolving telecom market.
