Ericsson has announced it has provided its Core Network as a Service solution for Panasonic Avionics Corporation, setting the stage for 5G in-flight services.
Panasonic Avionics and subsidiary AeroMobile have deployed the platform across multiple markets as part of a collaboration that commenced in 2016.
AeroMobile provides data, voice and messaging services for passengers of more than 20 commercial airlines.
The Ericsson-provided solution includes virtualized network applications such as packet core, unified data management, mediation, and mobile switching delivered over NFV infrastructure. The core network solution is able to support 5G services to the passenger and airline.
Going forward, the two companies plan to explore other services to address additional market segments and opportunities.
“Panasonic Avionics is the first customer on Ericsson’s newly introduced Core Network as a Service solution, which aims to bring Ericsson’s leadership and expertise to a wide range of service providers,” Ericsson head of customer unit UK and Ireland Marielle Lindgren said.
“We’re proud to have initially been chosen as Panasonic Avionics’ supplier for a 5G-ready core network, and pleased that the project is now live.”