The announced collaboration covers the delivery of a 3G WCDMA radio network; a hardware and software package for data transfer; a multi-technology, multi-vendor network management system; plus turnkey implementation and technical services for network operation by Nokia Siemens Networks.

MTS is already using a Nokia Siemens Networks core network in Moscow, and therefore the company was a natural choice to be the supplier for the 3G radio network.

MTS plans to construct an integrated 2G/3G network in Moscow, where 3G subscribers will continue to be able to use the value-added services that are currently available within the 2/2.5G network. Leveraging the 3G technology, including HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) which provides fast data access, MTS will launch advanced services for the Russian market, such as video telephony, videoconferencing and mobile TV.

The deployment of the Moscow 3G network will start this summer. The multi-standard Nokia Siemens Networks site concept makes it possible for MTS to use existing GSM sites to deploy WCDMA/HSPA. In addition, all new sites will be prepared for the installation of 3G equipment from the very beginning.

“We are happy to continue our collaboration with Nokia Siemens Networks, one of the 3G market leaders. The company won the new contest by offering the optimal solution for an integrated 2G/3G network. We are confident that our choice will secure our previous investments and improve the overall quality of the MTS network in the Moscow region,” says Sergey Aslanyan, MTS OJSC Vice-President for Network and Information Technologies.

“Nokia Siemens Networks is happy to serve MTS as its partner to build the first 3G network in the Moscow region. Our end-to-end 3G solutions will enable MTS to concentrate on value-added services for its customers and open up new ways of further creating value for its subscriber base,” added Volker Ziegler, Head of the North-East Region for Nokia Siemens Networks.