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Bharti Airtel is expanding its 5G capabilities by acquiring high- frequency spectrum from Adani Data Networks. The move will strengthen airtel's presence in key regions across India and help improve its ultra- fast internet services.
Airtel Strengthens 5G Network with Key Acquisition
Bharti Airtel, one of India’s top telecom companies, has signed an agreement to buy 400 MHz of 5G spectrum in the 26 GHz millimeter wave band from Adani Data Networks, a subsidiary of the Adani Group. This high-frequency spectrum covers important telecom circles including Gujarat, Mumbai, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu.
This acquisition will allow Airtel to enhance the reach and speed of its 5G services, especially in urban and business-heavy areas. Airtel currently has around 120 million 5G users and is aiming to grow that number significantly by improving its infrastructure.
Adani’s Shift in Telecom Strategy
Adani Data Networks had acquired this 5G spectrum in 2022 during India's spectrum auctions. At the time, the company intended to use it to build private 5G networks for its businesses, which include ports, airports, and data centers. However, the company has faced multiple hurdles since then.
Adani Data Networks reportedly fell behind on its 5G rollout obligations and was under pressure from India’s Department of Telecommunications. Rather than continuing down this path, Adani chose to exit the telecom spectrum space and transfer the assets to Airtel.
What This Means for Airtel and Its Customers
By purchasing this spectrum, Airtel gains access to valuable bandwidth that can be used to support high-speed 5G services. The 26 GHz band is known for offering very high data transfer rates, making it ideal for urban areas, enterprise solutions, and future technologies like connected vehicles and smart factories.
This move is also expected to ease network congestion, deliver smoother video streaming, and enable more responsive internet services for Airtel users in the covered regions.
Regulatory and Financial Details
The deal is still subject to approval by India’s Department of Telecommunications. While neither Airtel nor Adani have disclosed the financial terms of the agreement, the acquisition reflects a broader industry trend where telecom players are focusing on strengthening their 5G capabilities.
Adani’s decision to pull back from direct telecom services also signals a shift in its business strategy—potentially focusing more on infrastructure and enterprise tech rather than consumer-facing telecom operations.
Final Take
Airtel’s purchase of Adani’s 400 MHz 5G spectrum marks a major step in the ongoing race to deliver next-generation internet services across India. For Airtel, it means better 5G performance and customer experience. For Adani, it's a strategic realignment away from a highly competitive and regulated telecom sector.
