The two-year agreement covers the Anchorage, Juneau, Ketchikan and Fairbanks markets and strengthens Dobson's position as the largest wireless service provider in the state. In addition, it maintains the carrier's continued seamless technology compatibility with its key roaming partners, which include AT&T Wireless and Cingular Wireless.

"Ericsson looks forward to working with Dobson Cellular to bring advanced voice and data services to its customers and to the customers of its roaming partners," said Angel Ruiz, president and CEO of Ericsson in the U.S. "We're also excited because it illustrates how advanced wireless applications are permeating rural areas, making it truly possible for subscribers to stay connected all the time."

"Based on our proven experience with Ericsson, we're confident that they will be an excellent partner in helping us bring GSM/GPRS wireless access to customers throughout Alaska," said Tim Duffy, senior vice president and chief technical officer for Dobson. "We fully expect the result of our collaboration to be the most powerful, feature-rich voice and data wireless network in the state."

Ericsson GSM/GPRS/EDGE radio access equipment is fully integrated for the 850 MHz band. That distinction makes it easier and quicker to perform simple network maintenance and troubleshooting functions, thus reducing the cost of network operation. Ericsson's GSM macro base stations, which are easily upgraded to EDGE, represent more than 30 percent of all GSM base stations installed globally.