Ericsson has announced an extension of its managed services agreement with NBN Co, the company rolling out Australia' national broadband network, through to 2020.
Under the renewed agreement, Ericsson will continue to be responsible for providing network operations for the fixed wireless component of the NBN as well as ground systems operations for the network's two dedicated communications satellites.
The agreement also covers customer connections and assurance for both technologies, which are being used to provide connectivity in regional and remote areas where it has been deemed not cost effective to deploy fixed line technology.
The fixed wireless and satellite services currently cover more than 980,000 premises in these areas with more than 290,000 premises connected to date.
NBN Co provides wholesale access to the national broadband network to its retail service provider customers.
Ericsson has been NBN Co's managed services provider since 2011, when it was appointed to build and operate a TD-LTE based fixed-wireless broadband network. This agreement was extended in 2014 to include operations of the NBN's long-term satellite solution.
“As we extend our strategic partnership with NBN Co, we look forward to continuing the delivery of fixed wireless and satellite services to regional and rural Australia,” Ericsson Australia and New Zealand managing director Emilio Romeo said.
“The availability of ubiquitous broadband to homes and businesses across Australia will help to bridge the digital divide and support economic and community growth.”