South Africa’s Cell C has selected Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) to modernize its all-IP radio access and backbone network. The development is in response to fast growth in mobile data traffic and increasing smart device usage. It will enable Cell C to provide faster broadband speeds and advanced multimedia services. NSN will deploy Flexi Multiradio Base Stations, which are delivered with GSM, 3G and LTE features and can be installed on Cell C's existing base station sites. This will allow the operator to roll out 3G-based mobile broadband coverage, while simplifying the network and reducing operating costs.

Nokia Siemens Networks to modernize the operator's all-IP radio access and backbone network.

Cell C subscribers will soon enjoy faster broadband speeds and a host of advanced multimedia services. The operator is modernizing its radio network to keep pace with growth in mobile data traffic and increasing smart device usage. Cell C has awarded the upgrade contract to Nokia Siemens Networks to enhance its radio access and backbone network, in addition to providing managed services under a separate contract.

"We are very happy to announce the appointment of Nokia Siemens Networks as a vendor for our next-generation network rollout plans," said Lars P. Reichelt, CEO of Cell C. "This deal represents another step forward in our promise of delivering a very high speed, high quality network to the South African market."

"With an unprecedented increase in data traffic, Cell C required a solution that could efficiently accommodate its still-growing GSM business and the need to upgrade to the more efficient 3G voice and data mobile technology," added Jorg Erlemeier, head of Middle East and Africa region at Nokia Siemens Networks. "Our Flexi Multiradio Base Station is delivered with GSM, 3G and LTE features making it the ideal choice for Cell C."

The highly compact, energy-efficient Flexi Multiradio Base Station can be deployed on Cell C's existing base station sites, allowing the operator to smoothly roll-out 3G-based mobile broadband coverage, while simplifying the network and reducing operating costs. Nokia Siemens Networks is also providing its high-capacity, cost-effective all-IP FlexiPacket Microwave solution for mobile backhaul, as well as its operations support solutions for network and resource management, trouble ticketing, and workflow management.

Under a separate managed services contract, Nokia Siemens Networks will draw on its deep expertise and experience in IP-based solutions to provide an array of services such as project management, planning, site acquisition, civil works, network implementation and integration, multivendor integration, network optimization, and hardware and software care.