Ericsson’s AIR 3285 arrives In Africa

Ericsson and Yas Tanzania have announced the first commercial deployment in Africa of Ericsson’s AIR 3285 radio, marking a significant advancement in mobile network performance and connectivity experience across Tanzania

The deployment follows a successful trial and forms part of Yas Tanzania’s broader network modernisation and expansion programme, aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure and improving access to high-quality connectivity nationwide. Ericsson is providing the AIR 3285 radios, along with deployment and integration support, to enhance network capacity, efficiency and performance.

The upgraded network capabilities will support more reliable connectivity for a range of everyday digital activities, including e-learning, remote working and live streaming. The technology will also improve performance in high-density environments, such as major events, while creating a stronger foundation for emerging digital services that contribute to inclusive economic growth.

The enhanced 4G capabilities are expected to support Tanzania’s digital transformation by expanding access to high-speed connectivity for individuals and businesses. The improved network infrastructure will also help enable advanced applications, including Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and smart city initiatives.

Hassan Jaber, Group Chief Executive Officer of Yas, commented: “Our partnership with Ericsson on this deployment reflects our continued commitment to enhancing connectivity across Tanzania. This first deployment of the technology in Africa marks an important step in our journey, as we introduce advanced Massive MIMO solutions to strengthen our network and better serve individuals, businesses and communities nationwide.”

Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head of Ericsson East and North Africa at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa, stated, “This first deployment of AIR 3285 in Africa is a proud moment for Ericsson and a testament to our technology leadership. We are dedicated to supporting Yas Tanzania's vision for a fully connected nation. This milestone validates the real-world impact of our Massive MIMO solutions in delivering exceptional performance and accelerating the journey toward a digital-first economy in Tanzania.”

Ericsson’s AIR 3285 is a dual-band Frequency Division Duplexing (FDD) Massive MIMO radio weighing just 31kg, making it the lightest solution in its category. Its compact and optimised design supports faster deployments at high-capacity locations while helping operators address increasing demand for uplink capacity.

Compared with traditional 4T/4R solutions, the AIR 3285 delivers up to four times higher uplink capacity and twice the downlink capacity, supporting improved network performance and operational efficiency. The deployment builds on ongoing efforts by Ericsson and Yas Tanzania to strengthen mobile network capabilities across the country.

Ericsson and Yas Tanzania have maintained a long-standing partnership, including the introduction of 5G services in Tanzania in 2022 and continued modernisation and expansion of the operator’s 4G network. The latest deployment further reinforces their collaboration and commitment to advancing high-performing mobile connectivity in Africa.