Ericsson, Huawei to build 3G networks for Airtel

Telecom major Bharti Airtel on Monday said it has given contracts to Ericsson India, Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) and Huawei Technologies to set up infrastructure for providing third-generation (3G) services in the country.

These vendors will plan, design, deploy and maintain 3G-HSPA (third generation, high-speed packet access) networks in 13 telecom circles where the company has won 3G licences, Bharti Airtel said in a statement.

It, however, did not state the deal value.

While Bharti Airtel has awarded network contracts for seven 3G circles to Ericsson India, NSN would manage three circles.

Chinese telecom equipment vendor Huawei Technologies has been introduced as the third partner for three circles.

3G offers high-speed mobile broadband services, enabling users to download full length movies, make video calls and watch television programmes live.

The company said the three partners will play a catalyst role in enhancing customer experience and the data usage habits in the country.

Bharti Airtel had paid the highest - Rs 12,295.46 crore - for the 3G spectrum (radio waves) during the bidding process. The circles include lucrative metros like Delhi and Mumbai, as well as other regions like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh (W), Rajasthan, West Bengal, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, North East, J&K and Assam.