Swedish telecom equipment major Ericsson has bagged a multi-million dollar deal to manage Bharti Airtel's mobile network in 15 circles. This also includes 3G networks in three circles where Airtel is using Huawei's equipment.

While the company did not reveal the deal amount, the five-year multi-vendor, multi technology managed services agreement will see Ericsson operate, maintain and provide services across 70 per cent of Bharti Airtel's network in India.

In addition to the standard portfolio of managed services, Ericsson will also take responsibility for the Intelligent Network that manages Bharti Airtel's prepaid customer base.

Mr Sanjay Kapoor, CEO-India and South Asia, Bharti Airtel, said, “This unique multi-technology managed services partnership with Ericsson will help us focus on creating a compelling service proposition for our customers, as we look to ramp up our market access for next generation services on 3G and 4G.”

Mr Fredrik Jejdling, Head of Ericsson India, said, “The rapid increase in customer numbers, and the network complexities due to multiple technology overlays defines the need for a renewed focus on differentiated user experience. ”

The 15 telecom circles under the scope of the partnership include, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, UP(W), UP(E), Rajasthan, North Eastern States, Assam, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Chennai and Kerala.

The full suite of managed services will be rendered through a Global Network Operation Centre and field operation activities spread throughout the country.

tkt@thehindu.co.in

Related Topics