Viettel, said to be the fastest growing mobile network operator in Vietnam, has signed a GSM network expansion contract with Ericsson to extend its coverage in rural areas of Vietnam and increase its capacity in the large metropolitan areas of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Danang.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will provide new core network nodes, radio base stations and microwave transmission equipment. The contract also includes upgrades and expansions of functionality in the service layer such as charging and voicemail, as well as project management, integration and implementation services.

Jan Signell, president of Ericsson South East Asia, said, "We are honored to be chosen for this comprehensive network expansion and we are fully committed to supporting Viettel in growing its market share. This contract will further enhance the cooperation between Ericsson and Viettel and strengthen our position as the leading provider of mobile systems in Vietnam."