NEW DELHI, Nov 20: Nokia has signed a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar extension deal with Bharti Airtel to deploy 4G and 5G network equipment across key cities and states in India. The agreement, announced in a joint statement on Wednesday, marks another milestone in Nokia and Airtel’s two-decade-long collaboration, during which Nokia has provided 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G network infrastructure.
Under this strategic contract, Nokia will supply advanced equipment from its portfolio, including base stations, baseband units, and the latest Massive MIMO radios. These technologies aim to expand Airtel’s 5G capacity and coverage while supporting the evolution of its network infrastructure. Additionally, Nokia will modernize Airtel’s existing 4G network with multiband radios and baseband equipment, which are also compatible with 5G.
Airtel will further leverage Nokia’s MantaRay Network Management system, which employs AI-based tools for intelligent network monitoring, digital deployment, optimization, and technical support. This approach is expected to improve network performance and efficiency.
Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “This strategic partnership with Nokia will future-proof our network infrastructure and provide customers with an unparalleled user experience.”
Pekka Lundmark, President and CEO of Nokia, highlighted the significance of the agreement, adding, “Our industry-leading AirScale portfolio and AI-based services will enhance the energy efficiency of Airtel’s network, enabling premium 5G capacity and connectivity with the highest quality of service for subscribers.”
Airtel, a global communications provider with a customer base exceeding 550 million across 15 countries in India and Africa, also has associate operations in Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. The deal further strengthens Nokia’s footprint in India, enhancing its role in the country’s growing telecom sector.
