Ericsson has secured a major contract with Bharti Airtel to oversee its nationwide 4G and 5G network services in India through a centralized network operations center (NOC). This partnership extends over multiple years and includes automation driven by AI and machine learning for efficient management of non-standalone and standalone 5G infrastructures, fixed wireless access, network slicing, and private networks.
Centralized network management has its advantages. Ericsson will leverage a sophisticated NOC to enhance Airtel’s network operations. This move is intended to bolster network efficiency, proactive service assurance, and cost reduction through automation. Furthermore, the consolidation into a centralized NOC allows for a strategic shift toward advanced 5G services including private and hybrid networks.
Ericsson and Airtel have a long-standing relationship, built over 25 years, through various technological advancements. Earlier this year, they agreed to deploy 5G core network solutions for Airtel, marking a transition towards a full 5G standalone setup in India. This partnership also includes collaborative ventures, such as one with Volvo Group to introduce 5G-based AI and AR/VR solutions to Indian enterprises.
The benefits of this deal extend beyond operational efficiency. Airtel aims to build a “future-ready network” with improved customer experiences, while venturing into new revenue streams. Randeep Sekhon, Airtel’s CTO, emphasized the importance of leveraging innovative technologies to accommodate rising data demands. On the other hand, Ericsson’s regional leader Andres Vicente described the agreement as pivotal, highlighting the potential for service diversification and enhanced customer offerings.
Vendors like Ericsson, Nokia, and Huawei are promoting intent-based NOC capabilities. This aligns telecom networks with the reliability expected of enterprise-grade services. For Airtel, the agreement is an opportunity to scale operations and adopt new technologies, positioning it as a leader in India’s evolving digital landscape. The collaboration underscores the trend of network operators outsourcing to trim costs while enhancing service delivery.
