Aircel has selected Nokia Siemens Networks (NSN) to supply, deploy and manage its HSPA+ (High Speed Packet Access)* enabled 3G network in three circles namely Punjab, Kolkata and rest of West Bengal. Nokia Siemens Networks has supplied and continues to manage Aircel’s GSM/EDGE network in six circles of the country.

“With mobile broadband, we want to provide unique services based on innovative data and value-added services, and create a new portfolio of mobile applications for our customers,” said Gurdeep Singh, COO, Aircel. “Nokia Siemens Networks’ competitive 3G solution suitably caters to our data service strategy and enables a superior voice experience while reducing the total cost of ownership at the same time.”

“We are committed to enabling a rapid and smooth rollout of the mobile broadband network for Aircel, applying our global experience gained from serving half of the world’s 3G subscribers,” said Urs Pennanen, head of India Region, Nokia Siemens Networks. “Our end-to-end solution will help Aircel address the surge in data traffic due to growing use of smartphones as well as generate new revenue opportunities through its delivery of a superior experience to its subscribers.”

As part of the deal, Nokia Siemens Networks will supply its compact Flexi Base Stations and Radio Network Controller. Nokia Siemens Networks will also provide a future-proof mobile packet backbone network, security solutions, and its multi-vendor network management and optimization software, NetAct.

Nokia Siemens Networks will operate and manage Aircel’s 3G network for four years under a managed services contract. Using its global service delivery model, it will also deliver network implementation, optimization, network management, operations and maintenance services remotely from its Global Network Solutions Center (GNSC).