Espoo, Finland - Henan Mobile Communications Corporation Ltd. in China has selected Nokia to provide phase 9 of its GSM network build out in a deal valued at USD 200 million. The phase 9 expansion, which will be the biggest increase in Henan MCC's network capacity since Nokia's cooperation began with the Chinese operator in 1995, will greatly enhance network coverage in rural regions, scenic spots, and city areas in Henan province.
Under the agreement, Nokia is providing GSM core and radio-access network equipment and services for operators. In addition to care services, Nokia will provide an extensive range of radio and core GPRS optimization services, software maintenance service and consultative support, as well as implementation service. Deliveries have begun and the network expansion will be fully operational in the first half of next year.
The deployment will increase the operator's capacity and coverage network throughout the central Chinese province of Henan, putting Henan MCC in an extremely competitive position.
Since 1995, Nokia has been Henan MCC's major supplier for every GSM expansion. Nokia is the operator's sole GSM core network supplier, as well as the sole supplier of GPRS and SMS equipment.
"Henan is one of the fastest growing provinces for mobile telecommunications in China with mobile subscribers exceeding 10 million this May," says Yuan Jianguo, General Manager of Henan MCC. "Henan MCC is also one of the leading operators in China to fully adopt global advanced mobile technologies. Through the ninth expansion, we will further strengthen our competitiveness, benefit from scales of economy, and bring the best quality service to our customers."
"We are extremely pleased to be working with Henan MCC to expand its GSM footprint," said James Lin, Vice President, Networks, Nokia China. "This is an important milestone that will greatly enhance Henan MCC's market position and will successfully pave the way for the introduction of new mobile services in the future. We are happy that our strengthening cooperation with Henan MCC is contributing to the communications and economic development of Henan province "
Henan Mobile Communications Corporation Ltd. is one of the wholly owned subsidiaries of China Mobile (HK) Limited, and has been listed in HK and New York Stock Exchanges since 1999. The operator serves Henan province in central China, with a population of around 100 million.
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