Mon Sep 23 03:50:53 UTC 2024: ## Vodafone Idea Inks $3.6 Billion Deal for Network Upgrade, Eyes 5G Launch

**New Delhi, India** – Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL) has secured a significant deal worth USD 3.6 billion (Rs. 300 billion) with Nokia, Ericsson, and Samsung for the supply of network equipment over the next three years. This marks the initial step in VIL’s ambitious three-year capital expenditure plan totaling USD 6.6 billion (Rs. 550 billion).

The investment will be used to expand VIL’s 4G coverage from 1.03 billion to 1.2 billion people, launch 5G services in key markets, and increase network capacity to meet growing data demands. The company is retaining its long-term partners, Nokia and Ericsson, and welcoming Samsung as a new collaborator.

“This contract will enable us to leverage cutting-edge equipment to enhance customer experiences,” said Akshaya Moondra, CEO of Vodafone Idea Limited. “We are excited to start our new partnership with Samsung and look forward to collaborating with all our partners as we transition into the 5G era.”

The new equipment will provide energy efficiency benefits, reducing operational costs for VIL. The company stated that supplies from these new agreements will begin in the upcoming quarter.

VIL has already implemented several “quick win” capital expenditure projects, such as deploying additional spectrum at existing sites and establishing new ones. These projects have led to a 15% increase in capacity and expanded population coverage by 16 million, which is expected to be achieved by the end of September 2024.

This investment comes after VIL’s recent equity raise of Rs. 240 billion and an additional Rs. 35 billion spent on spectrum acquisition during the June 2024 auction. The company is confident that this strategic investment will position VIL for a “smart turnaround” and enable it to effectively participate in the industry’s growth opportunities.

Read More