Vodafone Idea expedites talks with Nokia and Ericsson for 4G network upgrade, may include 5G deals too

New Delhi: Vodafone Idea has expedited talks with European vendors Nokia and Ericsson to upgrade its 4G network and purchase orders are likely to be issued in June-July, said executives aware of the details, adding that these may also include initial 5G deals.

The telco, which has just concluded an Rs 18,000 crore follow-on public offer (FPO), will utilise nearly Rs 13,000 crore for capex, over half of which will be for 4G expansion. “The talks have gained pace lately as funding has been ensured. It is expected that the purchase order will be issued after the spectrum auction and elections conclude in June,” an executive with one of the vendors told ET.