GCI Communication Corp (GCI) has signed an agreement with Ericsson to deploy and operate a new 5G Core network in Alaska.

The contract will see GCI accelerate its cloud-core technology and drive AI opportunities.

According to Ericsson, the partnership paves the way "towards the seamless integration of advanced 5G service capabilities into GCI’s network."

It builds on an existing long-term partnership between the vendor and the Alaska-based telco.

Ericsson already provides the Radio Access Network (RAN), microwave transport, and core network technology to support GCI’s 3G, 4G, and 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) networks.

GCI launched its 5G NSA network in Alaska in 2020.

As part of GCI's new deal with Ericsson, the telco will augment the network with a new dual-mode 5G Core in preparation for the future launch of 5G Standalone (SA) services.

“By leveraging Ericsson's expertise and innovative solutions in the core network, we are building a framework that will enable us to streamline and accelerate deployment of future core functionality and accelerate the implementation of new capabilities enabling us to provide our customers with an even better mobile data and voice experience," said GCI senior vice president & chief technology officer Troy Goldie.

Founded in 1979, GCI is a subsidiary of Liberty Broadband and is Alaska's biggest communications provider.

It was announced in November that Charter Communications announced a deal to acquire Liberty Broadband as part of an all-stock transaction.

Liberty Broadband, which is controlled by American businessman John Malone, owns a 26 percent stake in broadband and cable firm Charter and Alaskan telecommunications subsidiary GCI.

As part of that deal, Liberty agreed to divest GCI.