BT has signed a deal to deploy Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core in its Network Cloud, but delays removal of Huawei equipment from core systems.
The Ericsson solution is described as providing a container-based, cloud-native mobile packet core for 4G/5G Non-standalone and 5G Standalone services as a fully integrated core. The move will support BT’s move to a single converged IP network.
Howard Watson, CTIO of BT Group (pictured), said, “Having evaluated different 5G core vendors, we have selected Ericsson as the best option on the basis of both lab performance and future roadmap. We are looking forward to working together as we build out our converged 4G and 5G core network across the UK.”
He added, “An agile, cloud-native core infrastructure is at the heart of our ambition to enable the next generation of exciting 5G services for our customers and give the UK the world-class digital infrastructure it needs to win in the future global economy.”
Marielle Lindgren, Head of Ericsson UK and Ireland, commented, “Ericsson and BT have a long history of working together and we are delighted to continue that relationship with this new dual-mode 5G Core deal.”
Removing Huawei
According to a new report in the Financial Times [subscription needed], despite the new deal with Ericsson, BT has delayed the timetable for removing Huawei’s kit from its systems. At the end of 2018, BT said it would remove Huawei equipment from the core of its 3G and 4G networks within two years.
However, in January this year, on national security grounds, the UK government set a deadline of 2023 to cut Huawei equipment from the 5G core and limit non-core equipment from the Chinese vendor to 35% in 5G and full-fibre infrastructures. BT said this decision will cost it £500 million.
Watson told the Financial Times today that BT’s original self-imposed deadline “is logistically unnecessary. To push ahead at that pace would not make a lot of sense.” He did not outline a new schedule, aside from meeting the dates set by government.