Nokia has been selected as a major supplier by Reliance Jio to supply 5G radio access network (RAN) equipment from its comprehensive AirScale portfolio countrywide a multi-year deal.
Under the contract, Nokia will supply equipment from its AirScale portfolio, including base stations, high-capacity 5G massive MIMO antennas, remote radio heads (RRH) to support different spectrum bands, and self-organising network software. Jio plans to deploy a 5G standalone (SA) network which will interwork with its 4G network. The network will enable Jio to deliver advanced 5G services such as massive machine-to-machine communications, network slicing, and ultra-low latency.
Commenting on the development, Akash Ambani, chairman, Jio, said, “We are pleased to be working with Nokia for our 5G SA deployment in India. Jio is committed to continuously investing in the latest network technologies to enhance the experience of all its customers. We are confident that our partnership with Nokia will deliver one of the most advanced 5G networks globally.”
Meanwhile, Pekka Lundmark, president and CEO, Nokia, said, “This is a significant win for Nokia in an important market and a new customer with one of the largest RAN footprints in the world. This ambitious project will introduce millions of people across India to premium 5G services, enabled by our industry-leading AirScale portfolio. We are proud that Jio has placed its trust in our technology and we look forward to a long and productive partnership with them.”
Nokia has a long-standing presence in India. This new deal will mean that Nokia is now supplying India’s three largest mobile operators.
