ZTE has won a US$85 million UMTS contract with Indian operator Aircel. ZTE will build and deploy an advanced SDR-based 3G network for the mobile service provider. In addition to implementing the new 3G network, the vendor is also responsible for a 2G network upgrade and subsequent 3G upgrades. The new 3G network will be based on ZTE's SDR (unified 2G/3G/HSPA/HSPA+) platform, which enables multiple modes in a single base-station, as well as a smooth transition toward next generation technologies, such as LTE.

ZTE Corporation (“ZTE”) (H share stock code: 0763.HK / A share stock code: 000063.SZ), a leading global provider of telecommunications equipment and network solutions, today announced that it has won a USD85 million UMTS contract with Aircel to build and deploy an advanced SDR-based 3G network for the pan-India mobile service provider. As the long-term partner and supplier of GSM networks for Aircel, ZTE will be also responsible for its 2G network upgrade and implementing the new 3G network and subsequent upgrades. Aircel is the Indian subsidiary of Malaysia's Maxis Group.

The new UMTS network for Aircel is based on ZTE's SDR (unified 2G/3G/HSPA/HSPA+) platform. When completed, it will not only achieve multiple modes in a single base-station, but also create a smooth transition toward next generation networks such as LTE. This will allow Aircel to achieve cost-effective networking and improved mobile services. In addition, Aircel will benefit from ZTE's green base-station technology, which is already at the forefront of the industry.

India is an important market for ZTE. In 2009 alone, the company recruited more than 1,000 locals for a local-to-overseas employment ratio of more than 90%. In 2010, the company further expanded its engineering services center in Delhi to meet the increasing demands of the market.

"This contract between ZTE and Aircel is a significant one for ZTE in the Indian market," said Mr. Huang Dabin, CEO of ZTE India. "As always, ZTE will continue to invest in and maintain a commitment to the Indian market, especially since our Indian customers are regarded as strategic global partners."

Based on the advanced technology of its SDR platform, ZTE has continuously increased its investment in LTE technology - to date, it has more than 4,000 R&D staff focusing on 4G technology development.
To date, ZTE already has 12 LTE commercial application contracts and more than 65 test networks globally, including Europe, Americas, Asia Pacific and the Middle East.