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VodafoneThree, the new entity formed from the merger of Vodafone UK (LON:VOD) and Three UK, has signed a £2 billion ($2.7 billion) contract with Ericsson and Nokia Oyj (ST:NOKIA) to expand and modernize its mobile network. The deal is part of the company’s broader £11 billion investment plan aimed at building one of Europe’s most advanced standalone 5G networks.
Under the agreement, Ericsson will play the leading role by deploying its radio access network (RAN) across 10,000 sites in the UK while also upgrading core network components. Nokia will support the project by delivering equipment and services at 7,000 sites, ensuring additional coverage and capacity.
This major investment demonstrates VodafoneThree’s commitment to delivering faster, more reliable, and more extensive 5G connectivity to millions of UK customers. The rollout is designed to significantly improve coverage and network resilience, boosting speeds and reducing latency for consumers and businesses.
The £11 billion decade-long infrastructure plan underscores VodafoneThree’s ambition to compete at the forefront of Europe’s telecom sector. By investing heavily in standalone 5G technology, the company aims to drive innovation across industries, enhance digital connectivity, and support the UK’s digital economy.
The partnership with Ericsson and Nokia not only strengthens VodafoneThree’s technical capabilities but also positions the operator to meet the growing demand for high-performance mobile services. As 5G adoption accelerates, this large-scale upgrade will play a crucial role in shaping the future of mobile communications in the UK.
