Batelco doubles down on Ericsson: more RAN gear, AI scheduler and 5G core

Batelco by Beyon and Ericsson have extended their partnership to modernize Bahrain's mobile broadband network, with the Bahraini operator set to test one of Ericsson's AI-powered RAN solutions and deploy a cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core.

The companies announced the deal on Sunday, on the sidelines of the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum 2026 in Manama. It is the second consecutive agreement signed at the event — Ericsson and Batelco struck a similar deal at last year's Gateway Gulf to expand the operator's 5G coverage.

The relationship is not new. Ericsson has been supplying gear to Batelco since at least 2013. Twelve years on, the Swedish vendor is still the incumbent.

What exactly will Batelco deploy?

Under the extended partnership, Batelco will roll out Ericsson RAN solutions including high-performing massive MIMO systems. According to the vendor, these improve download performance and network energy efficiency while reducing the equipment footprint.

Batelco said the deployment will enhance coverage and capacity, supporting more stable connectivity and improving the mobile network experience for its subscribers.

The operator will also test Ericsson's AI-native scheduler for link adaptation. Ericsson claims the scheduler improves download efficiency and data throughput by adjusting the amount of data transmitted to devices in response to changing radio conditions. That is a vendor claim about a technology still in testing — commercial results in Bahrain remain to be seen.

Is this just radio gear?

No. The deal goes well beyond RAN. Batelco will also modernize its core network with Ericsson's cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core solution, including upgrades to the packet core and unified data management systems.

In addition, the operator plans to develop its cloud infrastructure by transitioning from NFVi to Ericsson's cloud native infrastructure solution, which it says will prepare the network for the next phases of cloud-native transformation.

In other words, Batelco is rebuilding its network from radio to core on a single vendor's stack.

What did the two sides say?

Petra Schirren, president of Ericsson Gulf Region, said the initiative supports delivering faster, more reliable connectivity and enhanced digital experiences for consumers and businesses, while preparing the network for the future of 6G technologies in Bahrain.

"By expanding connectivity, strengthening 5G standalone readiness and exploring 5G-Advanced capabilities, we are supporting Batelco in building a more efficient and future-ready network, opening new opportunities for innovation and laying the foundation for 6G," she said in a statement.

The 6G reference is forward-looking positioning, of course — no 6G standard exists yet. But the 5G standalone and 5G-Advanced steps in between are concrete parts of the deployment.

"We are building a more efficient network that meets the evolving needs of consumers and businesses," added Batelco by Beyon CEO Maitham Abdulla.

Why does this matter beyond Bahrain?

The deal signals how Ericsson is positioning AI RAN and cloud-native infrastructure as its next sales pitch to established customers. For Batelco, the dual-mode 5G Core and the move off NFVi are prerequisites for 5G standalone — the architecture needed before 5G-Advanced features and, eventually, whatever 6G turns out to be.

The AI-native scheduler trial will be one to watch. If it delivers measurable throughput gains in a live Bahraini network, expect Ericsson to cite it widely. For now, it is a test, not a result.

With the Gateway Gulf forum now an annual dealmaking venue for the pair, further extensions of this partnership at next year's event would surprise nobody.