Korek Telecom upgrades WCDMA core network with new Ericsson platforms

• Korek Telecom (Iraq) transforming and expanding its WCDMA core network with new SGSN and GGSN platforms from Ericsson
• SGSN to run on the latest Ericsson MkX platform, while the GGSN will be based on Ericsson’s market-leading GGSN platform
• Capacity and scalability of upgraded WCDMA core network accommodates the predicted strong growth in traffic

Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) is helping Korek Telecom transform and expand its WCDMA core network in Iraq. The scope of the project includes the implementation of the latest Ericsson MkX platform for the SGSN as well as Ericsson’s market-leading GGSN platform. The capacity and scalability of the upgraded WCDMA core network makes it possible for Korek Telecom to accommodate the predicted strong growth in traffic and paves the way for a future introduction of LTE.

Muhsin Akrawi, acting CTIO, Korek Telecom, says: “We join with our long-term partner Ericsson to ensure the future of connectivity in Iraq and we look forward to continue offering our subscribers the best network capabilities for the years to come.”

The Ericsson MkX platform for the SGSN is implemented for the first time in the Middle-East through the Korek Telecom project, making it an important milestone for Ericsson in the region.

"This contract demonstrates Ericsson's leadership in technology and services in Iraq and further extends our long-standing relationship with Korek Telecom. Ericsson's SGSN platform will enable Korek to deliver unique experiences for people, businesses and society, thus shaping and accelerating the Networked Society in Iraq." Says Rafiah Ibrahim, Ericsson’s Head of Middle East and Africa.

The proven functionality of the Ericsson MkX platform for the SGSN builds on the Ericsson Blade System and extends the capabilities to meet even the most aggressive traffic growth predictions. It provides superior scalability, supporting up to 36 million users per node and up to 2300 million users when deployed in a pooled configuration. The small physical size (0.24 square meters) and the low power consumption reduce the total cost of ownership as well as the carbon footprint.