Finland's DNA signs 4G/LTE contract with Ericsson

• DNA expands and upgrades its 3G network, and moves to 4G in major cities
• Enhanced user experience when accessing data-rich services, loading web pages and transferring files with the new 4G network based on LTE/EPC
• Three-year contract includes network management products, radio access, packet core, backhaul and related network rollout services

Each time we visit and load web pages, transfer files and access video, games and other data-rich services, we expect the process to become smoother and faster. By extending its existing partnership with Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) to include all the technology needed to build and launch a very competitive 3G/HSPA Evolution and high-end 4G LTE network, DNA will further enhance the user experience by improving network latency and bandwidth and introducing new quality of service-based offerings.

Tommy Olenius, Vice President, Technology, DNA, says: "By continuing our strategic partnership with Ericsson, DNA will be able to further improve the mobile broadband end-user experience and quality of service. The flexible new technology also allows remarkable growth in data-traffic volumes, caused by the great success of DNA's mobile broadband products. Modernizing the network with Ericsson's multi-standard radio solution also provides lower network energy consumption, therefore decreasing both the carbon footprint as well as the operational costs of DNA's mobile operations."

Robert Puskaric, Head Region Northern Europe Central Asia at Ericsson says: "With this agreement, we will continue to support DNA in developing their network in line with their mobile broadband strategies and ensure a seamless transfer to 4G. This includes effective handling of data traffic to avoid capacity bottlenecks in the mobile backhaul, providing the tools needed for a differentiated service offering and a smooth network rollout."

During the contract period, DNA's 3G/HSPA Evolution (21/42Mbps) services will expand to nationwide coverage. 4G services will be offered in the major cities to accelerate the data traffic in the busiest areas. DNA aims to launch 4G commercially during 2011.

The deal will run over three years and includes GSM/HSPA/LTE radio access, Evolved Packet Core (EPC), All IP-based mobile backhaul solutions as well as network management solutions. Services to DNA will cover support, network rollout, systems integration as well as consultancy and educational services.

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Ericsson is the world's leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators. Ericsson is the leader in 2G, 3G and 4G mobile technologies, and provides support for networks with over 2 billion subscribers and has the leading position in managed services. The company's portfolio comprises mobile and fixed network infrastructure, telecom services, software, broadband and multimedia solutions for operators, enterprises and the media industry. The Sony Ericsson and ST-Ericsson joint ventures provide consumers with feature-rich personal mobile devices. 

Ericsson is advancing its vision of being the "prime driver in an all-communicating world" through innovation, technology, and sustainable business solutions. Working in 175 countries, more than 80,000 employees generated revenue of SEK 206.5 billion (USD 27.1 billion) in 2009. Founded in 1876 with the headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson is listed on NASDAQ OMX, Stockholm and NASDAQ New York.

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