Three has selected Nokia Networks to help upgrade its 2G and 3G networks, as part of a €300m investment plan that also includes the ongoing rollout of 4G.
Deployment of new technology and hardware will start in September and the project will be completed by 2017. Three said it expects customers to start benefiting from the improvements before then.
As part of the deal, Nokia Networks will provide its single RAN platform based on the high-capacity, scalable and energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station for 2G and 3G. It will also modernise the core network with its Liquid Core based Open Mobile Softswitch (MSS) and Open Media Gateway (MGW), as well as providing its Subscriber Data Management solution.
And it will deploy its cloud-ready OSS system, NetAct, for monitoring, managing and optimising Three Ireland’s network. The contract also includes hardware, software and competence development services.
The deal is reported to be worth in the region of €100m.
“Nokia Networks has been our technology partner since 2004 and we are delighted to extend this partnership to bring our network to the next level,” said Three chief technology officer David Hennessy.
“Following on from Three’s successful acquisition of O2 in Ireland, this significant network investment further demonstrates our commitment to rollout a state-of-the-art network for our customers. We are moving towards becoming the No 1 operator in the country and will do this by providing the best network, value and service for our customers.”
"This project underscores our long and fruitful partnership with Three Ireland,” said Russell Garner, head of Three UK and Ireland customer team at Nokia Networks. “We will support Three Ireland as it strengthens its position in the market and use our technical expertise to help it become the operator-of-choice in the country.”
Source: http://www.businessandleadership.com/business/item/47233-three-picks-nokia-networks
