FYI: MegaFon & Nokia

Nokia wins Russian GSM contract MegaFon, the Pan-Russian mobile operator, has chosen Nokia as the sole supplier of its GSM network in the central region of Russia. Under a two-year frame agreement signed between the two companies, Nokia will deliver and deploy a complete GSM network to the cities of Nizniy Novgorod, Voronezh and surrounding regions. The central region that will eventually be served by MegaFon has a combined population of some 22 million and forms the commercial and industrial foundation of central Russia. The first phase of deliveries has already begun and is scheduled to be completed by the end of July. The system provided by Nokia includes core and radio-access network equipment, as well as extensive cellular transmission infrastructure and the Nokia NetActTM operation and support system. "We are delighted to be working with the first nationwide mobile operator in the emerging Russia mobile phone market," says Denis Malyshev, Senior Account Manager, Nokia Networks. "We are cooperating closely with MegaFon to bring the very best of GSM service to central Russia, and we see this as the beginning of a long relationship that will accelerate the up take of mobile services in this vibrant area." The financial details were not disclosed.