Vodafone Czech Republic has chosen Siemens and Ericsson to build its 3G network.

Siemens will build, plan and optimize the UTRAN network. The installation of the network will take place gradually. The company will deliver to Vodafone Czech Republic the hardware components such as W-CDMA base stations and controllers as well as infrastructure for power supply and antennas. The frame contract is to run for three years.

Ericsson will build the 3G transmission and core network, including its mobile softswitch solution. The core network will be completed by the end of June 2006. It will deliver the latest microwave radio system, MINI-LINK. It will provide efficient traffic aggregation, easy capacity expansion, and improve service quality and network control.

Before the end of 2006 Vodafone Czech Republic will use its 3G network to offer customers a whole array of new services for multimedia mobile communications such as video telephony, video transmission and fast mobile Internet access. Ericsson’s Mobile By implementing Ericsson’s Mobile Softswitch into its network, Vodafone Czech Republic has taken the first step to all-IP.

“Our 3G vision represents a symbiosis of state-of-the-art technology on one side and internationally tested services which attract customers and boost traffic on the other,” said Fred Hrenchuk, Vice President Technology, Vodafone Czech Republic.

“This order is an exciting confirmation of our technology and our expertise. For six years we have been the market leader in the Czech Republic, and with this order we are strengthening our position in a satiated market,” said Christoph Caselitz, President of Mobile Networks at Siemens Communications.