Turkish Network Outlines 3 Year Plan

Turkey's Aycell says that it expects to invest approximately US$145 million over three years -- including approximately US$94 million in infrastructure equipment and services from Nortel Networks, to expand its GSM1800 network.

"Our target is 500,000 subscribers by the end of year 2002," said Fahrettin Aydyn, general manager of Aycell, which is owned by Turk Telekom and operated as a separate entity. "We will secure this number with high quality, reliable and value added services."

"We have big expectations from our cooperation with Nortel Networks/Netas, a company that played an important role in the development of the Turkish telecom network over the past 35 years," Aydin said. "Nortel Networks/Netas expertise in GSM technology, network solutions and service enablers will support Aycell in reaching its goals quickly and with confidence."

For the Aycell expansion, Nortel Networks/Netas is working with Palmet, an established local construction company and representative of AMEC. Palmet will be responsible for site acquisition, construction and preparation; installation and commissioning; and OEM equipment supply.'"

Posted to the site on 30th August 2002