Thu Feb 27 03:22:33 UTC 2025: ## Airtel Partners with Ericsson for 5G Standalone Network Rollout

**New Delhi, February 27, 2025** – Bharti Airtel announced Tuesday a significant partnership with Swedish telecom equipment maker Ericsson to accelerate its transition to a 5G standalone (SA) network. The agreement involves Ericsson deploying its 5G core technology, including the Signalling Controller solution, across 12 of Airtel’s 22 telecom circles.

This collaboration marks a key step in Airtel’s long-term 5G strategy. Currently, Airtel utilizes a combined 4G/5G network infrastructure, also offering 2G services. The shift to a 5G SA network will allow Airtel to exclusively deliver 5G services, although a complete transition is expected to take time.

According to Airtel’s Chief Technology Officer, Randeep Sekhon, this rollout will significantly boost network capacity and enable the delivery of innovative services. Ericsson’s Andres Vicente, Head of Market Area Southeast Asia, Oceania and India, highlighted the 5G core’s ability to facilitate new revenue streams through network slicing and APIs, opening doors for innovative consumer and enterprise applications. The upgrade is designed to future-proof Airtel’s network and enhance its capabilities.

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