Ericsson in partnership with MTS to deploy 3G in Russia

Ericsson has signed a frame agreement with Mobile TeleSystems OJSV (MTS), Russia‘s leading mobile operator, to supply and deploy a 3G/HSPA network.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will deliver a turnkey solution including 3G/HSPA core and radio access network equipment, network management system hardware and software plus a range of professional services such as network deployment, systems integration, operation, technical support and training.

The commercial launch of 3G network segments is scheduled for second half of 2008.

This move will enable MTS to offer its subscribers high-speed mobile broadband services together with innovative, next-generation multimedia services, such as mobile TV and video calls.

Ericsson’s HSPA (High-Speed Packet Access) provides fast data transmission speeds in uplink and downlink. It also boosts network capacity and lowers response times for interactive services. Ericsson’s unique dual access packet core allows smooth and efficient introduction of high speed 3G/HSPA services through software upgrade of the existing GSM core hardware.

MTS is the largest mobile phone operator in Russia and the CIS. Together with its subsidiaries, MTS has more than 83 mln subscribers and provides GSM services in Armenia, Belarus, Russia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. MTS is 52.8% majority-owned by Sistema, the largest private sector consumer services company in Russia and the CIS.