Deutsche Telekom AG has tapped Ericsson AB to upgrade its mobile network prior to the anticipated rollout of 5G technology.

Under a five-year deal, Ericsson will supply "5G-ready" multi-standard solutions for Deutsche Telekom's 2G, 3G and 4G networks. The solutions will be provided for one out of two market areas of Deutsche Telekom in Germany.

The network upgrade is expected to help Deutsche Telekom's German subscribers experience an improved network that can take on the "next generation of services and network capabilities," Ericsson said.

Deutsche Telekom has long been working with Ericsson for maintaining its 2G as well as Internet Protocol telephony networks.