Singtel and Ericsson have announced a five-year partnership to expand industrial 5G connectivity and AI-powered network capabilities in Singapore.
The agreement prioritises wider commercial deployment of network slicing and programmable connectivity. It builds on existing operations at PSA Singapore’s Tuas Port, while proposed applications at other infrastructure and industrial sites remain exploratory.
Singtel Singapore chief executive Ng Tian Chong said: “Our priority is to make these capabilities more widely accessible and commercially viable, while continuing to strengthen the reliability, security and performance of our network.”
The partnership extends a collaboration announced in March 2026 and establishes a roadmap for scaling 5G Advanced and AI-powered network capabilities across industries. Its industrial scope includes autonomous vehicles, robotics, smart manufacturing, and intelligent logistics.
Tuas Port provides an existing deployment
At Tuas Port, Singtel says its 5G network slicing supports secure, low-latency communications for automated guided vehicles, cranes, and other port systems, enabling real-time coordination of operations.
Singtel plans to extend network slicing and programmable connectivity to more sophisticated AI-powered applications. The companies identify dedicated network capacity, low latency, and predictable performance as requirements for connected machines, sensors, and AI systems to operate and respond in real-time.
The partners will also explore opportunities at Changi Airport Terminal 5, Bulim Square, and upcoming JTC developments. Potential uses include autonomous mobility, intelligent inspection systems, real-time video analytics, and remote monitoring.
Uplink capacity supports industrial data transmission
Recent network enhancements include technology supporting peak uplink speeds of up to 250 Mbps on compatible newer devices, according to the companies. They identify remote monitoring and AI-powered video analytics among the applications supported by faster transmission of high-definition video and other data-intensive content.
The figure is a peak capability subject to device compatibility, rather than a reported sustained rate for an industrial installation. Singtel also reports that deploying 700 MHz spectrum on its 5G+ network has improved coverage by up to 40 percent, particularly indoors.
AI network operations remain partly exploratory
The companies report a 19 percent throughput improvement in a live-network trial of AI-powered radio access network capabilities. That result concerns network performance; it does not establish an equivalent improvement in industrial productivity or application response times.
Under the five-year agreement, the partners will explore progressively integrating AI into network operations. Planned uses include predicting traffic patterns, optimising network resources, and identifying potential performance problems earlier.
Singtel aims to increase automation across its radio and core networks to improve operational efficiency, optimise energy consumption, and strengthen service assurance. However, it’s worth noting these are stated objectives rather than quantified outcomes from the new agreement.
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