Swedish networking equipment maker Ericsson plans to build a new 5G R&D site in France in order to accelerate 5G development in Europe.
The site will focus on 5G software development and security that will serve as a prerequisite for the digital economy in the next-generation cellular infrastructure. The site will open in early 2020 with a ramp-up in employees of up to 300 employees.
The facility will be established in Ericsson’s Massy, France, office, part of Paris-Saclay, a European innovation zone.
Ericsson currently has 18 R&D centers in Europe including Finland, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Poland, Spain and Sweden. This houses about 15,000 engineers in Europe, of which 60% are dedicated to R&D.
"We recognize the economic and technological importance of the French market and the country's influence in Europe,” said Fredrik Jejdling, executive vice president and head of networks at Ericsson. “The rich technology ecosystem and key competencies that are present in France are conducive to building 5G through a strong R&D presence in the country. This initiative will strengthen Ericsson's 5G software portfolio, including enhancing security capabilities, especially for the French and European markets. It will also support our continued focus on Europe and bring the latest innovations to our customers."
