Exclusive contract includes LTE deployment, updates to 2G, 3G

Nokia Networks said it will head up an update of regional wireless operator IWireless’ network, including work on the carrier’s legacy GSM-based 2G and 3G services and installing LTE equipment. That network currently serves portions of Iowa, Nebraska and Illinois.

Nokia Networks said the deal will include use of its Single RAN Advanced platform and related Flexi Multiradio 10 base station to support 2G, 3G and LTE services; its Evolved Packet Core network to upgrade IWireless’ current packet core to support LTE; and Nokia’s Subscriber Data Management system to provide access to subscriber data and support the launch of new services. Nokia Networks will also handle network implementation, planning and optimization.

Nokia Networks said it is the sole supplier of IWireless’ radio and core network in support of legacy 2G and 3G services, with the latest expansion maintaining that exclusive relationship. The updates and LTE equipment is expected to help IWireless maintain network relationships with other mobile operators, including a nationwide roaming deal with T-Mobile US.

Financial terms of the deal were not released.

Nokia Networks late last year announced a deal with T-Mobile US to expand the reach and capabilities of T-Mobile US’ LTE network, including the deployment of LTE-Advanced equipment, greater spectrum support for LTE services and expanded availability of voice over LTE and Wi-Fi services. The contract called for Nokia Networks to provide equipment and services in support of T-Mobile US’ 700 MHz spectrum resources and its ongoing move to refarm the 1.9 GHz spectrum currently supporting the carrier’s 2G and 3G services to support its LTE offering. Nokia Networks said it would provide LTE-A carrier aggregation for all of T-Mobile US’ spectrum bands.

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