Russian GSM operator VimpelCom has chosen Nokia to supply an EDGE-capable GSM/GPRS network to expand its GSM coverage and capacity for aggressive growth in key cities in Russia's Central and North West Regions. The deal is valued at an estimated US$70 million. The frame agreement originally covered areas in Central and Black Earth Region of Russia. The new extension will extend the Nokia-supplied network to new areas in the Central and North West regions, doubling the number of subscribers served by Nokia equipment.
Deliveries will start immediately, with the system to be inaugurated in different cities starting from the end of 2003 onwards.
VimpelCom, with close to eleven million subscribers, is the second biggest operator in Russia and the market leader in the Moscow area.
"As a fast-growing operator, it is critical that we partner with reliable and flexible vendors," says Sergey Avdeev, Chief Technology Officer, VimpelCom. "We are very satisfied with Nokia solutions for GSM and EDGE networks, as well as its speed in deliveries."
Posted to the site on 2nd December 2003
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/10223.php