INDIA BUSINESS WORLD - DECEMBER 1^st - DECEMBER 15^th - 2007

ERICSSON BAGS 4-YEAR SUPPLY DEAL FROM IDEA

Swedish network major Ericsson has announced that it had bagged a four-year deal to supply GSM equipment to Idea Cellular for its Mumbai circle and also maintain the telco's network in the metro city. According to sources, the deal is estimated to be worth $100 million. Currently, Idea Cellular does not offer cellular services in Mumbai. The telco which offers mobile services in 11 circles has already obtained a licence to begin operations in Mumbai and is awaiting the allotment of 2G spectrum for the same. "Under the four-year agreement, Ericsson will supply radio access, microwave transmission, and core network equipment, including Ericsson's mobile softswitch solution. Ericsson will also be responsible for network deployment and integration, as well as managed services, including network and field operations," a statement added.