Alcatel-Lucent to expand and enhance MTN's GSM/EDGE mobile network in Yemen

Once completed, the new network will dramatically increase data transfer speeds while reducing operating expenses, helping the operator meet growing demand for its services.

Alcatel-Lucent will expand and enhance MTN's wireless network with the latest generation of the enhanced GSM/EDGE family of products(*). The contract includes core and radio network equipment, a microwave transmission system and a comprehensive set of telecommunications services including network integration and deployment services, radio network optimization and managed services.

"We believe that our GSM network users will greatly benefit from a superior quality network that provides high-quality services," said Raed Ahmad, CEO of MTN Yemen.

"By expanding our ongoing relationship with Alcatel-Lucent, we can be assured that our customers are provided with the best mobile communication experience including quick, reliable connections that will have a positive impact on regional economic growth."

Under the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent will supply its field-proven ATCA-based Base Station Controllers (BSC) Evolution, based on the industry's most advanced hardware architecture. With its compact design and high performance, this platform will leverage MTN's existing radio access network investments while reducing operating expenses. Additionally, Alcatel-Lucent will supply its Twin TRX radio transceiver, which doubles base station capacity to support the requirements of urban environments and enables wider coverage in rural environments, while at the same time reducing power consumption by up to 30%.

The Alcatel-Lucent's GSM/EDGE solutions are designed to help operators reduce the total cost of ownership for the network, taking into account such critical factors as site acquisition and leasing costs, civil engineering requirements, as well as power consumption, transmission, and operating and maintenance costs.

Alcatel-Lucent also will supply an advanced microwave transmission system that provides fast and efficient transport of voice and data traffic between base stations and the core network, as well as high-capacity core switching and Intelligent Network extensions. Alcatel-Lucent will provide a range of services including network management, architecture and design, technical support, radio optimization and managed services.

"This agreement is a further testimony to our leadership in the delivery of the latest generation of GSM/EDGE radio solutions, and further strengthens our relationship with MTN. We are fully committed to helping MTN strengthen its market leadership in Yemen and enhance its competitiveness," said Vincenzo Nesci, president of Alcatel-Lucent's activities in the Middle East and Africa. "With our strong local presence, project management organization and our state-of-the-art wireless technology, we are confident that we will be able to meet MTN's expectations in providing a first-class network."

Alcatel-Lucent is a leading player in the GSM/EDGE market with more than 180 customers in more than 90 countries as well as the global leader in the development and deployment of third-generation (3G) networks, having deployed commercial 3G (UMTS/HSPA and CDMA/EV-DO) systems for more than 70 operators worldwide.

The company is also the world's leading manufacturer of microwave transmission equipment, with more than one-half million microwave radios delivered worldwide, including low-, medium- and high-capacity microwave radios for voice, video and data (IP, ATM, Fast Ethernet) communications.