Ericsson to Build 3G Network for Turkcell

Ericsson has signed a contract with Turkey's dominant mobile network, Turkcell, as the main supplier to build a complete WCDMA/HSPA network and a range of related services. 3G network preparations started in February, and previous comments from the company suggest that it is looking at a partial launch in June.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will supply an end-to-end network solution, including a WCDMA/HSPA radio access network, and an IP-over-Ethernet-enabled mobile-backhaul solution based on microwave transmission. Ericsson will also be responsible for a full range of services, including, systems integration, technical support and network build and implementation.

Süreyya Ciliv, CEO of Turkcell, says: "We will continue our 3G investments in order to maintain our leadership in 3G coverage and quality just like today. Apart from our infrastructure studies, we are continuing to work on solutions that will enable us to provide improved services and products so that our customers can use them wherever they prefer, faster and with more appropriate prices. We are continuing to invest in Turkey and Turkey's future.

The financial details of the contract were not disclosed.

Turkcell ended last September as the largest operator in the country, with a market share of around 55.5%, and 36.3 million customers. The country itself has a 91% population penetration level.

On the web: Mobile World - Turkcell

Posted to the site on 11th March 2009