Ericsson and Turkcell achieve core network automation milestone

In partnership with Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC, news, filings), Turkcell (NYSE: TKC) (BIST: TCELL) has successfully automated key components of its Ericsson dual-mode 5G Core solution in a production network using the Ericsson Cloud Core Pipelines and Portable Automation Jobs (PAJ) integrated with Turkcell’s own Gitlab-based pipeline. This milestone marks the first time globally that the solution’s network functions have been automated by a communications service provider leveraging its own systems.

With this automation milestone, Turkcell is now positioned to optimize its network operations while ensuring customers continue to experience reliable and high-quality Internet of Things (IoT) and Voice over LTE (VoLTE) services.

Since 2022, Turkcell has utilized Ericsson’s Packet Core Controller as a Mobility Management Entity for its Narrowband IoT (Nb-IoT) services. Additionally, Turkcell has been deploying Ericsson’s Call Session Control Function (CSCF) for VoLTE services since 2016. Building on this foundation and deep familiarity with the applications, Turkcell adopted a forward-looking strategy to drive network automation for the two functions. The goal, which was successfully achieved, was to create more efficient network operations, reduce manual intervention, and accelerate the deployment of new functions and features through continuous software updates.

By leveraging Ericsson Cloud Core Pipelines and Portable Automation Jobs as well as other Ericsson software tools like Ericsson VNF Manager (EVNFM) and Automated Acceptance Tests (AAT), Turkcell has achieved significant advancements in automation within its core network. This includes automation of critical processes such as the initial deployment of cloud-native functions (CNFs), software upgrades, and software validation. Beginning with these initial components, the automation project, which enables key capabilities like automatic software ingestion, preparation, verification, and rollback, ensures streamlined operations with reduced time to market.

Prof. Dr. Vehbi Çağrı Güngör, Chief Technology Officer of Turkcell, says: “Automation is key to achieving our vision of delivering seamless and efficient services to our customers. Partnering with Ericsson has enabled us to enhance network operations, shorten our time to market, and ensure our services are powered by the latest advancements in technology.”

Kevin Murphy, Vice President and Head of Ericsson North Middle East and Africa, says: “This achievement is a testament to our strong partnership with Turkcell, showcasing how automation in network operations can drive operational efficiency. Through leveraging Ericsson’s advanced tools and Turkcell’s innovative approach, this collaboration sets a benchmark for future-ready network management.”

Turkcell’s successful implementation highlights the potential of CI/CD automation in core networks, showcasing a new era of efficiency and agility for telecom operators worldwide.