Airtel Gabon has selected Ericsson for deploying a new LTE network, transformation of the existing mobile radio access and core network infrastructure.
“Mobile broadband data is a key driver for economic growth in Gabon. The LTE launch will ensure our customers have the highest speeds and best experience available,” said Christian de Faria, chief executive officer at Bharti Airtel Africa.
Ericsson will install its radio base station the RBS 6000, which supports GSM/ EDGE, WCDMA/HSPA, and LTE in a single cabinet. Ericsson will also upgrade capacities and packet functionalities to support LTE requirements for the installed base of MINI-LINK TN microwave equipment.
The LTE contract covers equipment, software and a range of professional services, including project management, systems integration and support.
Ericsson is the existing supplier of Airtel Gabon’s circuit switched and packet core networks, along with existing 2G and 3G radio networks.
The LTE network that Ericsson is deploying includes an upgrade of the packet core network to a multi-access Evolved Packet Core, supporting 2G, 3G and LTE. Ericsson has delivered more than 220 LTE RAN and Evolved Packet Core networks, of which 170 are live commercially.
