Israeli mobile network operator (MNO) Cellcom and US-based vendor Parallel Wireless are launching what they have called a ‘unique, first of its kind experiment to deploy a [5G Standalone] network for autonomous 5G’. In a press release regarding the matter, the companies said they were launching a pilot which will demonstrate the deployment of autonomous 5G SA core sites in Israel, with this development coming after Cellcom announced in January 2023 that it plans to establish a cloud-based 5G SA network.

According to the companies, the pilot will be based on the 5G SA technology, with an end-to-end Open RAN solution that will include demonstrations of RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) capabilities – a smart management layer used for control and advanced performance optimisation.

Commenting on the matter, Cellcom CEO Daniel Sapir said: ‘Cellcom continues to invest significant resources and efforts to lead the [5G] revolution, whether by establishing suitable infrastructure, widespread deployment of sites throughout the country, exploring advanced technologies in the communications field in general and cellular in particular, and adapting them to market needs.’ Meanwhile, Baruch Navon, President and COO of Parallel Wireless, added: ‘Parallel Wireless is proud to partner with Cellcom and showcase how our innovative 5G SA agile Open RAN software can disrupt the wireless network landscape not only in Israel but worldwide … The pilot, scheduled to conclude by the end of 2023, will incorporate advanced applications to improve network performance and efficiency, with the intention of bringing 5G SA to the benefit of the users.’