In a deal worth $52.87 M, China Mobile Pakistan Ltd. (CMPak), a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Mobile, has contracted Alcatel-Lucent to expand its existing GSM/EDGE network. The expansion, which is now underway, will allow CMPak to provide enhanced commercial services in northern Pakistan.

Alcatel-Lucent, through its flagship company in China, Alcatel-Lucent Shanghai Bell, will supply CMPak with its multi-standard GSM/EDGE radio access solution including its latest Base Station Controller platform and TWIN transceivers, along with microwave transport solutions for enhancing interconnection among base stations and providing mobile traffic backhauling capabilities. The company will also provide a comprehensive suite of network integration services such as network optimization, system support and general project management, to enable the operator to introduce new technologies and services in the future.

Through fulfillment of this contract Alcatel-Lucent will enable CMPak to increase its network capacity and coverage, bringing enhanced mobile services to a greater number of people in the region and improving the end-user experience. The company will have the full responsibility for building the network, providing design, deployment and integration services. The company will also provide project management and maintenance services.

“This contract reinforces the existing strategic partnership between CMpak, China Mobile and Alcatel-Lucent,” said Qian Li, CEO of CMPak. “Alcatel-Lucent will help us implement our business plans and ensure we can rely on industry-proven mobile technologies in Pakistan for now and the future.”