Finnish operator DNA has announced its intention of launching a commercial LTE network covering major Finnish cities during 2011.
The LTE rollout will be supported by the simultaneous deployment of an HSPA+ network to provide nationwide broadband coverage. The network infrastructure will be supplied by Ericsson, which has signed a three-year upgrade contract with DNA.
The contract covers supply of radio access, mobile backhaul and network management solutions. Ericsson will also provide systems integration, consultancy and educational services.
DNA's LTE network will be Finland's third, following the launch by TeliaSonera of an LTE network in Turku and Elisa's imminent launch following trials in Espoo in 2010. DNA has 2X20 MHz in the 2.6 GHz band compared to the 2X25 MHz owned by TeliaSonera and Elisa. Deploying HSPA+ technology in the liberalised 900 and 1800 MHz bands will enable DNA to deliver mobile broadband services to Finland's widely scattered rural communities.
For more:
- see this LTE World article
- see this Mobile Europe article
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