3G Network Launched in the Caribbean

Alcatel-Lucent and Aruba based Setar (Servicio di Telecomunicacion di Aruba) have activated the first UMTS and HSDPA network in the Caribbean. The deployment was conducted under a September 2006 agreement to deliver equipment and related services to further expand the coverage of its mobile network to large geographical areas.

"Alcatel-LucentÃ's advanced wireless solution is helping us simplify our network operation, reduce our expenses and will enable us to increase our revenue by making useful new mobile services available to every citizen in Aruba," said Roland Croes, CEO of Setar. "Alcatel-Lucent is a proven market leader in wireless solutions and has been a reliable partner as we have been expanding our business. They possess the right combination of products, services and support to help us meet our customersÃ' demands for advanced services."

Under the terms of a frame agreement between the two companies, Alcatel-Lucent has provided Setar with its comprehensive radio networking solution including base stations, radio network and base station controllers (RNC/BSC), wireless network management system solutions and engineering tools. Alcatel-Lucent was also responsible for network design and complete network deployment, including network integration and maintenance services.

According to the Mobile World, Setar is estimated to have ended the first half of this year with around 36,000 subscribers - giving them a market share of 41%.

Posted to the site on 12th December 2007