English

Services in The open UMTS network to be launched in 2001

Report this content
The consortium formed by Ratos, Teracom and Nomura has now submitted a UMTS application to the Swedish National Post and Telecom Agency, PTS. The consortium's plan ensures the rapid roll-out of an open and neutral UMTS network. The launch of UMTS services in the network will start in 2001. According to the plan, the network will cover 99.98% of the Swedish population by 2003. The consortium's investment in its network is estimated at SEK 10 billion.

"Our vision is to become the leading independent and open network operator in Sweden, thereby strengthening Sweden's position as the leading innovative nation within mobile technology and services," say the consortium's members in a joint statement.

In line with the consortium's business concept, several service providers will be offered capacity on the UMTS network. The consortium has already signed declarations of intent with MCI WorldCom, RSL COM, Glocalnet, Internet 5 and Home.se.

In order to ensure the neutrality and openness of the network, the consortium's present members, Ratos, Nomura and Teracom, will retain the majority of the equity in the company, with Teracom holding a minority share of less than 20%. A share of the equity has been reserved for those service providers who would also like to become partners. So far, Glocalnet has expressed interest in a partnership.

The consortium also has plans to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit in the mobile environment. If the UMTS licence application is granted, the consortium will participate in the formation of a new mutual fund. The intention is to stimulate the development of new, creative UMTS services.

A full summary of the UMTS application is available on the companies websites at www.ratos.se and www.teracom.se

For further information, please contact:

Anna-Karin Eliasson,
Head of Corporate Communications, Ratos, +46 70 399 62 39

Christer L. Lundin,
Head of Corporate Communications, Teracom, +46 70 891 20 27

Percy Marchant,
Nomura Asset Investment Group, +44 207 521 3451

Subscribe