Today’s telecom news includes announcements on Comtech Telecommunications, Satellite and Space Communications (S&S), Gilat Satellite Networks, Reliance Jio, DoT, Ericsson, among others.
Comtech’s Bold Reset: $157.5 mn Deal with Gilat Signals New Strategic Direction
Comtech Telecommunications has signed a definitive agreement to sell most of its Satellite and Space Communications (S&S) business to Gilat Satellite Networks for $157.5 million, marking a major step in its strategic transformation. Under the deal, Gilat will acquire the majority of the S&S segment, while Comtech will retain selected cyber-focused assets and rights to certain accounts receivable collections. The transaction, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, is expected to strengthen Comtech’s financial position and sharpen its focus on public safety technologies. Alongside the sale, the company has secured amendments to its credit facilities and preferred stock agreements, improving financial flexibility and supporting debt reduction efforts.
Spectrum Showdown: Jio Defends Indigenous Wi-Fi Plan for 26 GHz Airwaves
Reliance Jio has defended its proposal to use the 26 GHz spectrum band for Wi-Fi services, arguing that India’s spectrum auction rules explicitly permit technologies beyond standard 3GPP-based mobile networks with prior regulatory approval. The telecom operator told the Department of Telecommunications that its indigenous Wi-Fi solution complies with existing spectrum regulations and international technology standards. Jio maintains that the move would enable faster broadband deployment, improved network efficiency, and innovative fixed wireless access services using spectrum it acquired in the 2022 auction. The proposal has intensified industry debate over spectrum usage, as regulators evaluate whether licensed 5G airwaves can support alternative wireless technologies while maintaining compliance with national telecom policy.
Ericsson Supercharges 5G Networks with AI-Powered RAN Optimisation for Faster, Smarter Connectivity
Ericsson is accelerating the shift toward AI-driven mobile networks with its new AI in RAN software, designed to embed advanced machine learning directly into the radio access network for real-time optimisation of 5G performance. The system uses telco-grade AI models running within basebands and radios to improve spectral efficiency, boost throughput, and enhance energy efficiency without requiring additional hardware upgrades. Field deployments and trials across multiple operators show performance gains of up to 20 percent higher downlink throughput, around 10–15 percent improvements in spectral efficiency, and significantly better user capacity and positioning accuracy. The solution also supports autonomous functions such as AI-based scheduling, beamforming, and network observability. Ericsson positions this as a step toward fully AI-native networks, where automation continuously adapts to traffic conditions and user demand.
SHAFANA FAZAL
