Ericsson, Dialog ink deal to deploy 5G RAN in Sri Lanka

Sweden’s Ericsson has signed an agreement with Dialog Axiata PLC to deploy a 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) as part of the operator’s next phase of nationwide 5G expansion.

The agreement, announced at the Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, will see Ericsson supply equipment and software from its 5G RAN portfolio, including the Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radio AIR 3219 designed for the 3.5 GHz band, alongside advanced network software such as Ericsson’s Real-Time AI Powered Automation under its 5G Advanced solution suite.

Under the deal, Ericsson will also introduce its Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution (CNIS), initially deployed to support the cloud-native Ericsson Network Manager. The solution is expected to enhance Dialog’s ability to manage network data and devices more efficiently while supporting the operator’s broader transition toward cloud-based network architecture. Ericsson will further provide rollout services, integration and network optimisation support as part of the contract.

Dialog, which was the first operator to launch commercial 5G services in Sri Lanka, currently runs the country’s largest 5G network with more than 1.5 million connected subscribers. As the only provider with access to the 3.5 GHz spectrum locally, the operator is positioned to deliver wide-area coverage alongside higher network capacity, enabling both consumer and enterprise 5G use cases.

The latest deployment is expected to strengthen Dialog’s efforts to expand nationwide 5G coverage, increase network capacity and develop advanced enterprise services as demand for high-speed connectivity continues to grow.

Director and Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC Supun Weerasinghe said the partnership represents another step in strengthening Sri Lanka’s digital infrastructure.

“Our collaboration with Ericsson marks an important step in advancing Sri Lanka’s 5G journey. As we accelerate the next phase of rollout, we are strengthening the digital infrastructure that will power enterprises, enable innovation and enhance everyday connectivity for millions of Sri Lankans,” he said.

Head of Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh David Hägerbro said the agreement builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies.

The rollout is expected to accelerate the development of new digital services and enterprise innovations while expanding access to high-speed connectivity across the country.