Nokia has won a multi-year, multi-billion-dollar deal with Bharti Airtel to expand 4G and 5G networks across India. The agreement is part of Airtel’s effort to upgrade its network infrastructure and provide users with faster, more reliable connectivity while minimizing environmental impact.
Airtel’s Vice Chairman and MD, Gopal Vittal, stated that this partnership will “future-proof our network infrastructure” and ensure an eco-friendly, high-performance network for its customers.
Nokia will deploy its state-of-the-art 5G AirScale portfolio, which includes base stations, baseband units, and the latest generation of Massive MIMO radios powered by the ReefShark System-on-Chip technology. These advancements will enhance Airtel’s 5G network coverage and capacity.
Additionally, Nokia will modernize Airtel’s 4G network with multiband radios and baseband equipment that can support both 4G and 5G. This modernization will pave the way for a seamless transition to 5G across the country.
Focus on Energy Efficiency
Nokia’s advanced AI-based MantaRay Network Management tools will enable intelligent network monitoring and optimization. These tools, combined with energy-efficient technologies, will help Airtel reduce carbon emissions, aligning with its ambitious emission reduction targets under the Green 5G Initiative.
Nokia’s CEO, Pekka Lundmark, emphasized that this deal reinforces Nokia’s long-standing relationship with Airtel and its strong presence in India. The collaboration will bring the highest quality 5G services to subscribers, with a focus on sustainability.
Airtel Reports Strong Financial Growth
Bharti Airtel recently reported a 168% increase in net profit for Q2 FY25, reaching Rs 3,593 crore, compared to Rs 1,341 crore in the same period last year. Quarterly revenue rose by 12% year-on-year to Rs 41,473 crore, driven by strong performance in India and steady growth in Africa.
Airtel’s India business recorded revenues of Rs 31,561 crore, a 16.9% increase, supported by improved performance in mobile services, homes, and Airtel Business.
With this partnership, Nokia and Airtel aim to deliver cutting-edge 5G services to millions of users in India. The collaboration highlights a significant step forward in India’s telecommunications sector, combining technological innovation with a focus on sustainability.
