Top Indian Companies Driving the 5G Revolution: A Comprehensive Look at Telecom Equipment Manufacturers

As India advances in its 5G journey, the demand for sophisticated telecom equipment has surged significantly. With promises of faster internet speeds, enhanced connectivity, and a transformative impact on industries ranging from entertainment to healthcare, 5G technology is ushering in a new era. The backbone of this technological revolution is high-quality, reliable telecom equipment that enables the infrastructure needed for 5G to thrive. Consequently, Indian companies specializing in 5G equipment are playing a pivotal role in this transformation. Let’s delve into the companies spearheading India's 5G telecom manufacturing sector.

1. Sterlite Technologies

Sterlite Technologies, established in 2000, has emerged as a major player in India's telecom sector, known for its cutting-edge optical fiber cables and advanced network solutions. The company is instrumental in providing the essential fiber optic infrastructure that forms the backbone of India's 5G networks. In addition to offering components, Sterlite Technologies delivers end-to-end services including network design and deployment, making it a preferred partner for large-scale telecom and data networking initiatives.

In 2023, the company secured prominent contracts from industry leaders such as Vodafone Idea and Reliance Jio to supply optical fiber cables critical for 5G infrastructure. Bolstered by growing demand, Sterlite Technologies has announced plans to invest Rs 2 billion to expand its fiber production capacity, with an eye toward tapping rural connectivity and global markets. The company’s future outlook is positive, with expectations of a 15% revenue increase as 5G infrastructure expands across the globe.

2. HFCL Ltd. (Himachal Futuristic Communications)

Founded in 1987, HFCL Ltd. has evolved from manufacturing fiber optic cables to becoming a critical player in 5G technology. The company now produces 5G routers, millimeter-wave products, and other networking equipment essential for high-speed communications. In collaboration with Qualcomm, HFCL has developed advanced 5G millimeter-wave technology, allowing for faster data transmission. The firm has also secured contracts with Reliance Jio, further solidifying its role in India’s 5G rollout.

HFCL has heavily invested in expanding its manufacturing capabilities, allocating Rs 7 billion toward a new facility dedicated to producing 5G equipment. The company is eyeing a doubling of its revenue from 5G products over the next three years and is expanding its footprint internationally, especially in regions where 5G adoption is on the rise.

3. Tejas Networks Ltd.

Founded in 2000, Tejas Networks is a leader in designing and manufacturing telecom networking equipment, focusing on 5G backhaul solutions. These backhaul solutions ensure smooth data transmission from mobile towers to the core network. Recently, Tejas Networks won a Rs 10 billion contract to provide 5G backhaul solutions to BSNL, one of India’s largest telecom operators. Additionally, the company has partnered with Intel to develop tailored 5G solutions for the Indian market.

With a focus on cost-effective solutions for emerging markets, Tejas Networks plans to expand its operations in Southeast Asia and Africa. The company's growth prospects are robust, with an expected 20% revenue increase over the next two years. As one of the key suppliers for BSNL's 5G rollout, Tejas is poised to experience a significant turnaround in performance.

4. Indus Towers Ltd.

Although Indus Towers, established in 2007, does not manufacture telecom equipment directly, its extensive tower network is essential for 5G deployment in India. Telecom operators, such as Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio, rely on Indus Towers for the infrastructure required to deliver 5G services. To meet the growing demand for 5G connectivity, Indus Towers is upgrading its network and expanding its reach by installing 5,000 new towers designed to support 5G antennas.

Indus Towers has committed Rs 5 billion to upgrade its existing infrastructure, ensuring it is 5G-ready. The company has ambitious plans to add 10,000 more towers over the next three years, with a projected 12% revenue increase as 5G services gain traction nationwide.

5. ITI Ltd.

Established in 1948, ITI Ltd. is one of India's oldest telecom equipment manufacturers and a government-owned entity. Over the years, ITI has evolved its product portfolio to include 5G routers, switches, and other networking equipment, positioning itself as a key player in India’s 5G landscape. ITI's contribution to the BharatNet project, which aims to improve broadband access across rural India, includes supplying 5G routers and switches.

As part of its expansion strategy, ITI plans to collaborate with international partners to enhance its 5G offerings. The company expects to double its revenue from 5G-related products over the next three years, solidifying its role in the digital future of India.

6. Bharti Airtel Ltd.

Bharti Airtel, founded in 1995, is one of India’s largest telecom service providers and a pivotal player in the deployment of 5G services across the country. Though Airtel does not manufacture telecom equipment, it has invested heavily in the infrastructure required for 5G. The company has partnered with global equipment manufacturers like Ericsson and Nokia to build its 5G networks.

Airtel's strategic focus includes conducting 5G trials in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The company aims to achieve nationwide 5G coverage by 2025. With additional investments in cloud-based solutions through its partnership with Google Cloud, Airtel is positioning itself to cater to the growing demand for digital services in both urban and rural India.

7. Tata Communications Ltd.

A subsidiary of the Tata Group, Tata Communications is a critical provider of telecom infrastructure, including the fiber networks required for 5G connectivity. While the company focuses primarily on enterprise solutions, Tata Communications plays a crucial role in ensuring fast and reliable 5G data transmission.

Tata Communications has partnered with telecom operators to provide specialized 5G solutions for industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and IoT (Internet of Things). As part of its international expansion, Tata Communications is targeting emerging markets to capitalize on the growing demand for 5G services.

8. Bharti Hexacom Ltd.

Bharti Hexacom, a subsidiary of Bharti Airtel, focuses on providing telecom services, including wireless and broadband solutions, in Rajasthan and Northeastern India. While Bharti Hexacom does not manufacture 5G equipment, it has a robust network infrastructure that supports the deployment of 5G services. The company has a spectrum portfolio that enables it to offer 5G services at a lower cost of ownership, positioning it as a critical player in India’s 5G ecosystem.

9. L&T Technology Services Ltd.

A division of Larsen & Toubro, L&T Technology Services specializes in providing R&D and engineering services for telecom networks, playing a significant role in the design and deployment of 5G infrastructure. The company has been involved in several large-scale 5G projects, offering services such as network optimization, testing, and design.

L&T Technology Services recently secured a US$100 million contract from the Maharashtra government to establish a cybersecurity center. The company is also working with Intel to develop scalable edge-AI solutions for applications like Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (CV2X), further strengthening its position in the 5G ecosystem.

10. Subex Ltd.

Subex is a leading provider of network security and analytics solutions tailored for telecom operators. As 5G networks become more complex, Subex’s solutions help telecom companies manage and secure their infrastructure efficiently. The company has introduced a range of 5G-specific security solutions and partnered with major Indian telecom operators to enhance their network security.

Subex’s expertise in network security and its focus on artificial intelligence integration make it a key player in ensuring the reliability and security of India’s 5G networks.

In conclusion, The 5G revolution in India is well underway, and the role of telecom equipment manufacturers is crucial in supporting the infrastructure needed to make it a reality. Companies like Sterlite Technologies, HFCL, and Tejas Networks are not just contributing to India’s 5G journey—they are shaping the future of telecommunications in the country and beyond. As 5G continues to evolve, these companies will play an increasingly important role in driving digital transformation across sectors, setting the stage for a connected future.