Telecom operator SoftBank has selected Ericsson for the deployment of a multi-band 5G network in Japan.
Ericsson will provide radio access network equipment, including products from the Ericsson Radio System portfolio to SoftBank.

SoftBank aims to launch 5G services on their newly granted 3.9-4.0 GHz and 29.1-29.5 GHz bands for 5G New Radio (NR).

Ericsson did not reveal the financial details of the 5G network deal. The 5G network contract indicates the leadership position of Ericsson in the 5G business. Huawei, Samsung, Nokia and ZTE did not win the 5G network contract from SoftBank.

Ericsson will reinforce SoftBank’s existing LTE network while optimizing its 5G network. Ericsson Radio System products for this purpose will be deployed in several regions. With Ericsson Radio System, SoftBank can boost its spectrum assets.

Chris Houghton, head of Market Area North East Asia, Ericsson, said: “SoftBank and Ericsson have been partners since the 2G era and we are thrilled to support them on this latest part of their technology journey.”

Nokia earlier today said SoftBank has selected Nokia as a strategic partner to drive its commercial 5G offering with deployment of the Nokia AirScale solution. The deployment of Nokia’s 5G AirScale in Japan will allow the telco to meet growing consumer and industrial demands for 5G.