The project is backed by IDA Ireland and will help develop the company’s capabilities.
These capabilities will help communication service providers to improve operational efficiency, accelerate global deployment and value generation of 5G Standalone connectivity.
The project will advance support for open, multi-vendor, disaggregated and programmable network deployments.
Focus on Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP)
The investment will focus on the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP), and network powered rApps.
EIAP is Ericsson’s open network management and automation platform for multi-vendor and multi-technology 4G and 5G Radio Access Networks (RAN), which is largely designed at the Athlone site.
The platform provides an open environment for developing and running rApps from any vendor and radio technology.
AI, ML, and Advanced Analytics for Open Network Management
The investment aims to deliver next-generation open network management and automation capabilities with Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and advanced analytics.
Ericsson currently employs more than 1,300 people in the country, with the Athlone facility serving as the company's designated centre of excellence for intelligent network management.
National Recognition and Strategic Importance of Athlone Facility
Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, Peter Burke, said: “Ericsson's EUR 200 million announcement at their Athlone facility is fantastic news. Their innovative R&D project, which will span a duration of three years, will improve efficiency in 5G networks globally.
Ericsson have been established in Ireland for decades, with the Athlone facility a significant employer and an integral part of the fabric of the community for over 50 years.
It is really encouraging that Ericsson have once again cemented Athlone as key base for the company, selecting the campus and the staff based here to lead this pioneering work.
I wish all the team in Ericsson the very best with this exciting new chapter.”
