Telecom network and software major ZTE has bagged a major network modernisation deal from Telenet, a provider of cable broadband services in Belgium.
Telenet acquired mobile operator BASE from KPN for €1.325 billion in 2015.
As per the deal, ZTE will be the telecom equipment vendor for Telenet’s national UniRan radio access network in Belgium. ZTE will deliver modernized and enhanced UniRan technology. ZTE competes with Ericsson, Huawei and Nokia.
The major investment by Telenet in upgrading its mobile network is part of the company’s strategy to have its own mobile network to ensure better mobile service quality to customers.
Earlier, Telenet announced an investment of €300 million, with €250 million earmarked for the transformation of its mobile network.
“Since the takeover of BASE, we’ve already explained on many occasions how high our mobile ambitions are. Today, we’re ready and the project is taking shape,” said John Porter, CEO of Telenet.
By replacing 2G base stations and optimising both indoor and outdoor 3G, 4G and 4G+ coverage, ZTE is enabling Telenet to increase network capacity ready to accommodate by 2018 all its mobile clients currently hosted on the Orange network. With the ZTE UniRan solution, Telenet will ensure Network readiness for the future introduction of new mobile technology
Xianming Zhao, CEO of ZTE, said that Telenet will be in a position to provide quality mobile services for its residential and business clients and for its new clients.
Due to be completed by the spring of 2018, ENGIE Fabricom and PTM will work with Telenet and ZTE on operational level for physical replacement of the radio stations, wiring and administrative level for access to sites, licences, etc. respectively.
