NBN Co selects Ericsson for FWA network upgrade

Australia’s NBN Co has inked an exclusive ten-year partnership extension with Swedish vendor Ericsson for the deployment of 4G and 5G connectivity. Under the deal NBN Co’s fixed wireless access (FWA) footprint is expected to grow by up to 50% nationally by the end of 2024 and will see Ericsson become the sole supplier of 4G and 5G radio access and microwave transport solutions for NBN Co, with deployed solutions to include the vendor’s 4G and 5G antenna-integrated radios across the latter’s current and future spectrum bands. Also being utilised are Ericsson’s latest high-powered 5G millimetre wave (mmWave) solutions, the latest RAN Processor for 4G and 5G, and MINI-LINK microwave transport solutions. Ericsson’s extended-range innovation will reportedly enable NBN Co to expand its FWA network cell range from 14km to 29km, while the upgrade programme also aims to support higher speeds in the FWA network.

Commenting on the matter, Jason Ashton, NBN Co’s Executive General Manager for Fixed Wireless and Satellite, said: ‘Our network is the digital backbone of Australia, and it is constantly evolving as we help keep communities, businesses and all areas of society connected, and our nation productive. Investing in 5G mmWave is a part of our commitment to evolve the [FWA] network for future needs and continually enhance customer experience. We’re committed to maximising the performance of both our fixed wireless and satellite networks, and our work with Ericsson will help us push the boundaries of its capabilities to the benefit of the more than one million homes and businesses covered by these networks across Australia.’