Vodafone and Ericsson have signed a seven year deal which will see Ericsson provide maintenance and operations for Vodafone UK's 2G and 3G radio access networks.
As part of the deal 350 employees will move from Vodafone to Ericsson, scheduled for the beginning of May.
Out-sourcing network management activities is another example of how operators are reducing there cost burden.
It is anticipated that a specialist such as Ericsson will mange and maintain 2G and 3G networks more efficiently.
“We see this as a strategic long-term relationship, offering real operational and financial benefits,” said Jeni Mundy, chief technology officer, Vodafone UK.