Nigerian Microwave Backbone Project Underway

Harris Corp. says that it has completed Phase 1 of the Y'hello Bahn transmission backbone project for MTN Nigeria, creating the largest installed 4:1 backbone in Nigeria. Harris' microwave transmission backbone addresses the lack of reliable terrestrial transmission links, and will span 3,400 kilometres across Nigeria when complete.

MTN Nigeria is West Africa's largest GSM operator, and more than 120 communities throughout the region are now linked by the Y'hello Bahn transmission backbone, including the major metropolitan areas of Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt. As construction continues, Harris will link many smaller villages for the first time, delivering voice and data connectivity for MTN Nigeria's growing customer base.

Since Harris was awarded the contract in February 2004, MTN Nigeria's subscription numbers in Nigeria have increased dramatically, topping the three million mark in November 2004, up 87% from 2003. Network congestion levels are down significantly.

Harris recently announced a contract to extend MTN's coverage network with digital microwave radios from its TRuepoint family, a move which represents the largest telecommunications network expansion in Nigeria. Together the deals are valued at more than US$65 million."

Posted to the site on 17th February 2005