Ericsson to expand GP network

Ericsson and Grameenphone (GP) have recently signed an agreement to strengthen the capacity of the Telenor Group's all-IP (internet protocol) core network in Bangladesh.

The decision to add capacity follows tremendous growth in subscriber base of GP, said a statement yesterday.

Grameenphone, the country's largest mobile phone operator, has seen a rapid growth in recent years.

The contract with Ericsson, the world's leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators, would enable GP to improve its offering to more than 20 million customers.

The contract covers expansion and deployment of additional parts of the GSM core and radio access network. Ericsson would also provide related support services to Grameenphone throughout the contract lifecycle.

“This will ensure a flexible, scalable and robust network, enabling GP to cost-effectively develop a range of innovative services,” said the statement.

Ericsson would provide products to GP for all parts of its GSM network and the network is future-proof for possible upgrades to 3G and products like the new-generation Mobile Softswitch Solution (MSS), including Ericsson MSC Server Blade Cluster.

“In partnership with Ericsson, we're preparing for the next generation of our network solution. This investment in our network will help GP meet the needs of our rapidly increasing subscriber base to keep our leading position,” said GP CEO Anders Jensen.

Ericsson Bangladesh Managing Director Arun Bansal said the contract will allow GP to address strong subscriber growth and capture the full potential of this dynamic market.