Ericsson to supply microwave transmission to Mexico’s Telcel

Ericsson has been selected by Telcel – Mexico's leading mobile operator and a subsidiary of América Móvil – to provide microwave-transmission links for high-speed mobile broadband, the largest deal of its kind in Latin America so far. Ericsson will provide Telcel with microwave-transmission links for 2G and 3G/HSPA based on the MINI-LINK TN solution.
Mobile penetration in Mexico is growing at a yearly rate of about 22% and reached an estimated 64% in 2007. This rapid growth has prompted Mexican mobile operators since 2003 to upgrade their networks to offer high-capacity and high-speed data services. Ericsson's microwave solution will boost the transmission capacity of Telcel's 2G and 3G networks, enabling the provision of high-speed mobile broadband based on HSPA.
Telcel has stated that it is looking to migrate gradually to IP its whole network, to give its customers the highest mobile broadbrand speed.
The first phase of the contract extends through the end of 2008. Rollout begins in the third quarter of 2008.
Telcel is the leading wireless services provider in Mexico with more than 53 mln clients and more than 75% of the Mexican wireless market. Ii is a subsidiary of América Movil, the leading provider of wireless services in Latin America. As of July 21, it had over 165.3 mln wireless subscribers.