Broadcast technology provider Rohde & Schwarz and Vantage Towers, a transmission tower company with more than 86,000 sites, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance the commercialization of 5G Broadcast technology across Europe. This agreement aims to support the deployment of 5G Broadcast during its commercial roll out from 2026 and onwards.
As part of a collaborative framework, Rohde & Schwarz and Vantage Towers plan to jointly develop the business and market readiness for 5G Broadcast. Since the commercial deployment of the technology targets multiple applications like live and linear content, automotive beyond entertainment, venue casting and public warning services, having an uninterrupted coverage with an optimal quality of service for consumers is imperative, according to the companies.
They added that they aim to work together to create a go-to-market model that leverages Vantage Towers’ asset base and host expertise, combined with the portfolio of network solutions, services and relationships that Rohde & Schwarz holds with broadcast network operators (BNOs) worldwide. “We are delighted to partner with Rohde & Schwarz to bring large-scale 5G Broadcast coverage to life. This collaboration combines the strengths of both companies, with Rohde & Schwarz’s innovative 5G Broadcast equipment being deployed across Vantage Towers extensive network of towers, rooftop sites, and indoor coverage solutions. By utilising our comprehensive infrastructure portfolio, we are enabling media broadcasters to achieve a rapid and efficient commercial rollout of this cutting-edge technology,” said Badiaa Bazarbacha, Co-Managing Director of Vantage Towers Germany.
Steven Edwards, Vice President Broadcast Distribution of Rohde & Schwarz, added: “5G Broadcast will provide enhanced viewing experiences for consumers on-the-go along with high quality of service for broadcasters through optimised outdoor mobile coverage and specific public indoor venues. Using the locations of Vantage Towers and the Rohde & Schwarz 5G Broadcast solution, we look forward to helping develop a creative 5G Broadcast solution for broadcasters and BNOs in Europe and beyond.
The partnership focuses on facilitating the rollout of 5G Broadcast networks in strategic European markets with expansion planned for additional markets in the coming years, according to the companies. They added that, with their cooperation, they plan to play a key role in the evolution of broadcast and telecommunications industries, positioning 5G Broadcast as a flexible and scalable solution for the future of content delivery in Europe.