Strengthening India’s Role in Telecom Manufacturing and Export

Ericsson Antenna System (EAS) has announced the launch of local passive antenna production in India through a strategic partnership with VVDN Technologies. This move reinforces Ericsson’s global manufacturing footprint, complementing its existing facilities in Mexico, Romania, and China.  

Beyond meeting domestic demand, a substantial portion of the antennas produced in India will be exported, positioning the country as a key strategic hub in Ericsson’s worldwide supply chain. By localizing production, Ericsson aims to enhance efficiency, reduce time-to-market, and foster deeper collaboration with regional telecom operators and technology partners.  

A Strategic Move for Global Network Resilience

Ericsson’s decision to manufacture antennas in India aligns with its broader strategy to build a more resilient and customer-centric supply chain. The company emphasized that bringing production closer to key markets ensures faster deployment and greater adaptability in an increasingly dynamic telecom landscape.  

Mikael Eriksson, Head of Ericsson Antenna System, highlighted the significance of antennas in modern networks: *“Antennas are critical—they serve as the entry point for enhanced network performance and innovation. Expanding our production in India strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge technology at speed, right where our customers are building next-generation networks.”*  

Long-Term Commitment to India’s Digital Growth

Nitin Bansal, Managing Director of Ericsson India, underscored the company’s enduring investment in the country’s industrial and digital evolution: “This expansion reflects our commitment to India’s future as a global telecom manufacturing leader. By localizing production and strengthening the ecosystem, we ensure faster deployment, greater responsiveness, and enhanced supply chain security for our customers.”

Ericsson’s presence in India spans over 120 years, beginning in 1903 with the supply of manual switches to the Indian government. In 1994, the company further cemented its legacy by becoming the first telecom multinational to establish manufacturing operations in the country.  

Building on Recent 5G Momentum

The announcement follows Ericsson’s multi-billion-dollar agreement last year with Bharti Airtel to deploy 4G and 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) solutions across India. As part of the deal, Ericsson is rolling out centralized RAN and Open RAN-ready equipment, enabling Airtel to expand coverage, boost network capacity, and upgrade existing 4G infrastructure.  

With this latest expansion, Ericsson reinforces India’s growing importance in the global telecom supply chain while supporting the country’s ambitions to become a manufacturing powerhouse in next-generation network technologies.