ITPC selects Ericsson for network expansion

The partnership strengthens the five-year relationship between the companies and positions Ericsson as the sole supplier for ITPC's core network.

The expansion, which is the only wireline deployment in Iraq, will ultimately cater to an additional four million subscribers and provide enhanced quality of service.

Ericsson was originally responsible for the initial network deployment. Today, with Ericsson IP technology and the transition of ITPC network to the next generation network, ITPC will increase their operational efficiency while maintaining the ultimate customer experience and attracting new customers.

"Our aim is to always satisfy our customers with the best customer experience. This deployment is particularly exciting as it will put us one step closer to our goal of satisfying our customers and grow our network to nine million subscribers by 2015, adding four million subscribers to our subscriber base" said Mr. Amir Al-Bayati, Deputy Minister of Communication for Technical Affairs in Iraq.

"Ericsson first deployed the network, and choosing them for this expansion was a natural decision. We have all confidence in Ericsson capabilities to deliver beyond our expectations," he added.

"We are eager to build on the network and help ITPC modernize the service for current and future subscribers. ITPC's customers will now embark into the first steps towards the Networked Society as broadband connectivity is introduced," said Tarek Saadi, President, Ericsson North Middle East Region.

Through the transition to the next generation network, ITPC is introducing the IP Technology that will prepare their network for data services usage, ultimately leading up to mobile broadband and LTE connectivity. ITPC and Ericsson have partnered since 2007 on Wireline Core next generation networks, Transmission Microwave and Transmission DWDM projects. ITPC currently has 1.7 million subscribers.