Alcatel-Lucent signs contract with mcel Mozambique to deploy 3G network covering key markets in the country

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) today announced it has signed a contract with mcel, the largest mobile operator in Mozambique, for the deployment of a 3G network. With this deployment, Mozambique becomes the fourth country in the Southeast Africa region to launch 3G services, highlighting mcel’s position as a leading-edge player in Africa’s mobile market. The deployment will take place in the dense urban centres and suburban areas of Maputo, Beira and Nampula, Mozambique’s first, second and third biggest cities.

The new wireless network based on UMTS/HSPA (Universal Mobile Telecommunications Service/High Speed Packet Access) technology will enable mcel to expand its voice and data offerings to key customers and tourists with high-quality mobile voice and high-speed broadband data services such as video streaming, access to corporate e-mail and intranets, and many other new applications. Peak data transfer will reach speeds of up to 14.4 megabits per second with a compatible device. In addition to providing powerful mobile services, the introduction of the 3G network will enable mcel to compete in the fixed broadband market because of the exceptional broadband data throughput rate.

“The deployment of the 3G network in Mozambique will increase capacity for mcel, enabling them to continue to grow in areas where customer demand is particularly high and increasing,” said Frederic Rose, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s business in Europe, Africa and Asia. “This historic process will enable Mozambique to join other countries in the region in providing its citizens and visitors broadband access supporting the economic growth of the country and is another illustration of how Alcatel-Lucent can help its customers bring broadband access to all and reduce the digital divide in South and East Africa.”

The equipment supplied by Alcatel-Lucent – base stations, radio network controllers(RNC), wireless network management system and radio network planning tools - will be deployed in both indoor and outdoor environments and will include innovative Remote Radio Head technology that allows base station components to be distributed in multiple locations, enabling more flexible deployments by reducing real estate and space requirements. Alcatel-Lucent also will provide installation and commissioning services and will expand the existing transmission network to support the increased bandwidth requirements of the 3G service offerings.

As a global leader in the development and deployment of third-generation (3G) networks, Alcatel-Lucent has deployed commercial 3G (UMTS/HSPA and CDMA/EV-DO) systems for more than 70 operators worldwide.