Ericsson has signed a 4-year managed services contract for the operation and maintenance of the consolidated network of Mobile Broadband Network (MBNL), the 50:50 joint venture formed by
3UK and
T-Mobile UK, to manage the integration of both operators' 3G radio access networks (RAN).
As per the agreement, Ericsson will manage operation and performance management of both parent companies' 3G networks and T-Mobile's 2G RAN infrastructure. The tie-up will also ensure cost savings and environmental benefits, including the decommissioning of 5,000 cell sites.
“We are delighted and proud to be given the responsibility of operating the radio
access network for MBNL,” said Mats Granryd, managing director, Ericsson UK, in a statement. “This is an extremely exciting and bold project and we are entirely committed to playing our part in achieving success for MBNL's parent companies.”
T-Mobile and 3UK formed their infrastructure sharing agreement in January 2008 with the aim of creating UK's most extensive 3G network by 2010.
This network collaboration will deliver nationwide population coverage for 3G services and substantially improve in-building signal strength.
“The appointment of Ericsson is another significant step towards realizing our commitment to create and operate the UK's most extensive 3G network,” said Emin Gurdenli, chief technology officer, T-Mobile UK. “Partnering with a proven and progressive services organization reinforces our intent to deliver superior, high-speed mobile data services to customers across the UK.”
The contract will also enable MBNL to control operational expenses and deliver high service levels. It was signed at a time when the 3G network consolidation is moving into the mass deployment phase.
“The deployment of our consolidated mobile broadband network is advancing rapidly,” said Graham Baxter, CTO, 3UK, in a statement. “Having Ericsson as a trusted partner operating the access network will be an important contribution to our overall goals of providing a reliable and high performance service.”
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