The Singaporean Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has named the winners of its 5G contracts - with Huawei losing out, again.
Singtel and a joint venture between StarHub and M1 (JV) won the right to establish a 5G network in the city-state in April, however, the IMDA has now finalized the contracts as of June 24.
Nokia and Ericsson won the supplier contracts to provide 5G kit for the three telcos. In a statement, Singtel said: “After a rigorous tender process, Singtel has selected Ericsson to commence a period of negotiation to provide the 5G SA Core, RAN and mmWave network, with a view to finalizing the contractual terms as soon as practicable.”
The JV said: “The preferred 5G technology partner, subject to final contract, is Nokia for the 5G radio access network. Nokia is also the preferred technology supplier for StarHub's 5G core and mmWave networks.”
However, according to one of the partners, StarHub, the JV is exploring other network elements with vendors including Nokia, Huawei, and ZTE.
On-track for 5G
Singaporean Minister for communications and information S Iswaran said: “This 5G Final Award marks the closure of a robust and rigorous CFP process. With this, it sets the stage for the development of a world-class, resilient, and secure 5G infrastructure which will be the backbone of Singapore’s digital economy.
“We remain on track for nationwide 5G standalone deployment by 2025.
“We will build upon this infrastructure to create a vibrant 5G ecosystem, offering exciting opportunities and benefits for individuals, workers, and businesses in Singapore’s digital future.”
Singtel Group CEO, Chua Sock Koong, added: “We are excited to get this greenlight to lead and shape 5G in Singapore by building a world-class, secure and resilient 5G network that will serve as the backbone of Singapore’s digital economy."
Network wars
In the past month alone, Huawei has lost out on 5G contracts across the globe, in Canada, Singapore, and potentially the UK. In Canada, Bell Canada and Telus agreed to use equipment from both Nokia and Ericsson on their networks. This came after the Canadian Supreme Court rejected Huawei's CFO’s case against extradition.
