VodafoneThree has brought online a cloud-native 5G Core network from Ericsson, marking a significant step in the operator's infrastructure modernisation. The deployment aims to expand network capacity and dependability while enabling features such as Vodafone SuperMobile and network slicing capabilities.
Vodafone SuperMobile leverages 5G Standalone (SA) technology to deliver faster and more stable connections. Where 5G SA coverage is available, the service can achieve speeds up to four times faster than standard connections, with minimum download speeds guaranteed at 15 Mbps, according to the operator.
Network slicing allows different traffic types to occupy separate, dedicated portions of the network infrastructure. A dedicated National Business Slice serves enterprise customers by isolating business traffic from consumer usage patterns.
The new core follows VodafoneThree's introduction of its 5G+ Local Slicing service for business customers, which targets high-traffic environments including entertainment facilities, transport terminals and distribution centres.
Ericsson's core infrastructure is engineered to process up to 9Tbps of traffic, providing VodafoneThree with capacity headroom to manage rising consumption from video streaming, gaming and fixed wireless access services.
The activation of our new cloud-native 5G core network is a major milestone in our journey to build the UK's best network. Following the successful integration of our radio networks earlier this year, we are now taking the next step by creating a single, highly advanced core network that will underpin the future of connectivity for consumers and businesses across the UK.
Hrvoje Jerkovic, VodafoneThree Network Engineering Director
Together with Ericsson, we are building a network designed for the demands of tomorrow – delivering greater capacity, resilience and performance, while creating the foundation for innovations such as network slicing and new AI-powered services.
Hrvoje Jerkovic, VodafoneThree Network Engineering Director
We are immensely proud to partner with VodafoneThree on this pivotal stage of their network transformation. The activation of the new 5G Core network is a testament to the trust, innovation, and close collaboration that defines our partnership.
Luca Orsini, Ericsson North Europe Head
This deployment delivers a massively scalable and future-ready core and represents a key milestone in our shared journey to provide exceptional connectivity for people and businesses across the UK.
Luca Orsini, Ericsson North Europe Head
The activation forms part of an eight-year partnership valued at SEK 12.5 billion that was announced in September 2025, under which Ericsson became VodafoneThree's exclusive supplier for its nationwide core network infrastructure.
