Nortel Wins Chinese GSM Contract

China Mobile, has selected Nortel Networks to expand its GSM network in Hebei province under a contract estimated to be worth approximately US$36 million. Network expansion is planned for completion by mid-2003.

The upgrade - to be based on Nortel Networks Univity GSM access and core network solutions - will position China Mobile to increase network capacity in Hebei province by 1.8 million subscribers. In addition, the contract provides for introduction and implementation of both GPRS and EDGE migration.

"Nortel Networks is proud to have been chosen once again by China Mobile to implement this major GSM network upgrade," said Robert Mao, president and chief executive officer, Greater China, Nortel Networks. "This expansion will enhance China Mobile's offering in Hebei province by enabling delivery of new, revenue-generating services to a much larger subscriber base while positioning China Mobile to drive reduced operating expenses."

Nortel Networks has deployed wireless networks in 17 of China's 31 provinces - and supplied GSM digital infrastructure equipment to China Mobile in eight provinces, including Hebei, Shaanxi, Tianjin, Xinjiang, Guizhou, Anhui, Liaoning, and Hunan."

Posted to the site on 6th March 2003