Nokia announced its 5G network contract with IIiad Group, a mobile operator in France, to build 5G networks across France and Italy.

The 5G network deal will focus on network modernization and 5G introduction in France and 5G introduction in Italy making 5G available to 17 million IIiad subscribers across France and Italy.

Nokia has worked with IIiad in France since 2012 and in Italy since 2018 on the rollout of both 3G and 4G.

Iliad Group will deploy Nokia’s radio access technology, AirScale, allowing it to capitalize on early 5G networks whilst supporting 4G/LTE and 5G in the same radio access system. The installation of 5G massive MIMO antennas will ensure Iliad subscribers can make the most of the ultra-low latency and high-bandwidth capabilities of 5G.

Thomas Reynaud, CEO of IIiad Group, said: “Nokia’s innovative 5G technologies and solutions will enable us to launch quickly and efficiently, delivering a superior network performance whilst also securing us against future challenges.”

Tommi Uitto, president of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said: “The radio technologies will give Iliad the flexibility to quickly and smoothly launch a future-proof 5G network.”