Nokia and the Finnish operator Sonera have signed a two-year frame agreement in order to increase the capacity of Sonera's GSM network.
Nokia will deliver to Sonera its triple-mode Nokia UltraSite base stations, supporting GSM, GPRS and WCDMA technologies. Deliveries of the new base stations will start immediately.
The newest radio network technologies supported by these Nokia base stations will enable a flexible growth path for future services. In addition, Nokia will deliver implementation and maintenance services to Sonera.
"This agreement continues our cooperation with the aim of ensuring the capacity and the quality of our network as we prepare for faster data services. In addition, the solution will enable a flexible growth path to our next generation network, the main equipment supplier of which will be Nokia," said Mika Matturi, Vice President, Sonera Mobile Operations.
"We are very happy to continue our cooperation with such an innovative operator as Sonera," said Pekka Poutanen, Account Manager, Nokia Networks. "Nokia focuses on developing GSM and UMTS networks towards future IP-based services. The Nokia UltraSite base stations are modular in structure, and support various radio technologies and a flexible transition towards IP-based services," he added.
Sonera Corporation (HEX: SRA, NASDAQ: SNRA) is a leading provider of mobile and advanced telecommunications services. Sonera is growing as an operator, as well as a provider of transaction and content services in Finland and in selected international markets. The company also offers advanced data solutions to businesses, and fixed network voice services in Finland and neighboring markets. In 2000, Sonera's revenues totaled EUR 2.05 billion, and profit before extraordinary items and taxes was EUR 1.86 billion. Sonera employs about 10,500 people. www.sonera.com
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed broadband and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
Further information:
Communications Department, Nokia Networks
Tel.+ 358 (0) 7180 38195
E-mail nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com