Ericsson recently bagged a $1.3 billion outsourcing contract from Bharti Airtel to upgrade its mobile network in India. Ericsson said, they will expand and upgrade Bharti Airtel’s network in 15 telecom circles. This will help Airtel subscribers across 15 circles to enjoy an enhanced voice quality and faster data access.

“Our pioneering model of aligning with strategic partners who share our vision and bring in world-class experience and expertise to execute our plans has helped us focus on our customers and market place. The extension of our fifteen years association with Ericsson is testimony to the strength of the relationship as well as the success of the model. We continue to be delighted with Ericsson’s expertise in network expansion and transformation, helping us to reduce operating expenditures and enhance network quality. This way we can continue to provide a superior customer experience,says Sanjay Kapoor, CEO- India & South Asia, Bharti Airtel.

Ericsson has already won five network outsourcing deals from Bharti since 2004. Ericsson will supply energy efficient 2G/2.5G radio base stations, microwave transmission and Intelligent Network. They will also ensure that Airtel’s network is 3G-ready in order to reduce time and enable the fast rollout of 3G services in these telecom circles.