Asiacell selects Ericsson for new transmission backbone deal

• Asiacell signs an important deal with Ericsson in a new network domain to transform its transmission backbone infrastructure in Iraq.
• Ericsson will deploy MINI-LINK LH, an innovative solutions in the microwave domain to transform the network across new geographical expansions.
• This partnership enables Asiacell with the technology and capacity to cater to the increased demand in data traffic over the next five years.

Ericsson and Asiacell have partnered in a break-in network deal to transform Asiacell’s transmission backbone infrastructure in Iraq. This project enables Asiacell to secure the required technology and capacity to cater for the increased demand on data traffic and improve customer experiences in Iraq, in the coming five years. Last year, Ericsson collaborated with Asiacell in assessing key improvement factors on its network infrastructure. The transmission backbone network was a key focus for transformation across major geographical areas throughout Iraq.  MINI-LINK LH provides very high capacities and offers a smooth migration to packet transport. This new partnership will have a major impact on the end user experience once demand on data picks up after Asiacell’s 3G launches last year. Now Asiacell will be able to optimize its network for years to come. Mohammed Baban, Chief Technology Information Officer, Asiacell says: “The demand for mobile services is growing strongly in the country, especially after introducing 3G services in January 2015. To meet customer demands and enhance their experiences, Asiacell continue adopting new technologies and solutions. The project is swapping out TDM MW-Backbone with Ericsson MINI-Link LH to support IPBB/IP-MPLS to ensure Gigabit capacities over one antenna, High quality of services and network evolution towards all-IP. We are pleased to join hands with Ericsson in deploying their latest Innovative solutions which will further enhance our network performance. Our partnership will strengthen our commitment to society by allowing us to provide improved connectivity and offer best in class solutions to our end user.” Rafiah Ibrahim, Head of Ericsson Region Middle East and Africa, says:  “We consider our partnership with Asiacell for the Backbone transmission as an important milestone to support our partner achieving a superior network transformation and delivering a differentiated customer experience. This new partnership is a testimony of our long standing partnership with Asiacell and it is a key milestone in the journey towards the Networked Society in Iraq.”