5G Network Rollout: Reliance Jio Signs Multi-Year Deals With Ericsson, Nokia

Reliance Jio has partnered with Swedish telecom gear maker Ericsson to supply 5G equipment.

In a statement on Monday (17 October), Ericsson said that it has entered into a long-term strategic 5G contract with Reliance Jio to roll out 5G Standalone (SA) in the country.

The development comes after Finnish telecom gear maker Nokia on Monday announced that it bagged a multi-year deal from Reliance Jio to supply 5G equipment.

Announcing the partnership with Ericsson, Reliance Jio chairman Akash Ambani said,“We are delighted to partner with Ericsson for Jio’s 5G SA rollout".

"Jio transformed the digital landscape in India with the launch of LTE services in 2016. We are confident that Jio’s 5G network will accelerate India’s digitalization and will serve as the foundation for achieving our nation’s ‘Digital India’ vision," he added.

Ericsson’s energy-efficient 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) products and solutions (from the Ericsson Radio System portfolio) and E-band microwave mobile transport solutions will be deployed in the 5G network for Jio, the company said.

“India is building world-class digital infrastructure that will drive innovation, job creation and entrepreneurship across the country. We are happy to partner with Jio in those ambitions, through Ericsson 5G Standalone connectivity, which will be a major catalyst in meeting those digital transformation goals across society, enterprise and industry," said Ericsson CEO Börje Ekholm.