Telefónica Germany awarded Nokia a new five-year agreement to modernize its nationwide radio access network and accelerate 5G deployment through 2030. The contract expands a long-running partnership between the companies and positions Nokia as a key supplier for Telefónica’s next phase of 5G densification, indoor coverage improvements, and energy-efficient radio upgrades across Germany.
The deal introduces Nokia’s Cloud RAN solutions alongside its latest AirScale hardware portfolio, including Habrok Massive MIMO radios for the n78 band, Pandion multi-band remote radio heads, AirScale small cells, and new baseband systems. Telefónica Germany also selected Nokia’s Interleaved Passive Active Antenna (IPAA+) to simplify site design and speed construction timelines. The agreement includes ongoing maintenance and network optimization to support operational consistency at scale.
Telefónica will continue deploying Nokia’s MantaRay NM platform as part of a joint automation roadmap designed to move the operator toward automation level 4. The AI-powered system manages both purpose-built and cloud-based RAN architectures, supporting the transition to a more software-driven, energy-efficient network while improving customer experience and performance.
• Telefónica Germany awarded Nokia a 5-year RAN deal running through 2030.
• Includes nationwide deployment of AirScale radios, baseband, and small cells.
• Brings Cloud RAN capabilities into Telefónica’s German 5G footprint.
• Introduces IPAA+ to simplify antenna sites and accelerate rollout.
• Uses Nokia’s MantaRay NM for AI-driven network management and automation level 4 goals.
“We’re proud to extend our partnership with Telefónica Germany as we help them strengthen their performance, efficiency, and customer experience across their 5G network,” said Justin Hotard, President and CEO of Nokia.
🌐 Analysis
The contract reinforces Nokia’s strategic position within Telefónica’s multi-vendor RAN environment and highlights operator interest in Cloud RAN as deployments move beyond early trials. Telefónica Germany continues to prioritize AI-powered automation to control costs and manage a dense mid-band 5G network, aligning with broader European initiatives around energy efficiency and digital sovereignty. Nokia’s Cloud RAN and automation momentum also mirrors recent wins with operators in Japan, the U.S., and the Nordics.
