Cambridge Broadband Networks selected as preferred supplier for microwave backhaul equipment
Cambridge, UK – 19 October 2010 –Microwave backhaul specialist, Cambridge Broadband Networks, today announced a comprehensive framework agreement with MTN Group, one of the world’s largest and fastest growing mobile operators, for the provision of microwave backhaul and access equipment. The framework agreement, covering all 21 countries served by MTN, follows the successful deployment and operation of Cambridge Broadband Networks’ VectaStar solutions in a number of MTN’s African markets.
Each of MTN’s operating companies now has access to a range of pre-approved VectaStar microwave backhaul equipment via a group-wide purchasing agreement. That equipment has already been validated by MTN for a range of applications including backhaul of 2G, WiMAX and 3G network traffic, and the provision of broadband Internet access services to businesses. Additionally, MTN deployed vehicle mounted VectaStar units to provide addition backhaul capacity during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™. The agreement also makes provision for Cambridge Broadband Networks supplying a comprehensive set of design and implementation services including RF Planning, Project Management and Solutions Consulting.
Commenting on the agreement, Mr Navindran Naidoo, MTN Group’s GM Group Technology, said, “MTN delivers world class mobile services to business and residential users across Africa and the Middle east. To do so we need world class partners and Cambridge Broadband Networks’ cellular microwave solutions have been proven in our developed and developing territories. The VectaStar range is quick to deploy, cost effective and designed to meet the data capacity demands of next generation networks.”
Cambridge Broadband Network’s microwave backhaul and access solutions use a point-to-multipoint architecture that delivers significant capital and operational efficiencies. VectaStar microwave equipment, operating in standard ETSI 10.5GHz, 26GHz and 28GHz frequency bands, has been deployed in markets around the world and in conjunction with a variety of radio access networks including those supplied by Ericsson, Huawei, Alcatel-Lucent and NSN.
“MTN Group is a forward thinking operator focused on the delivery of best in class services,” said Graham Peel, Cambridge Broadband Network’s CEO. “That approach was evident in the rapid design and activation of its South African network, in preparation for the expected footfall at the World Cup. VectaStar microwave equipment is a key element of that network, and gave MTN the flexibility to extend network capacity on match days at a moments notice, using eight VectaStar equipped vehicles. We are looking forward to working with MTN to maintain their lead position in the industry.”
Media contact
For more information about any of the issues in this press release, please contact:
Sam Tring, Babel PR
020 7434 5550
About Cambridge Broadband Networks Limited
Cambridge Broadband Networks (www.cbnl.com), a member of the Next Generation Mobile Network (NGMN), provides telecommunications operators with carrier-class wireless point-to-multipoint transmission equipment. The company’s unique approach to backhaul means that its technology provides operators with a highly compelling business case, reducing backhaul costs by up to 60%. To date, Cambridge Broadband Networks products have been commercially deployed and technically proven in more than 30 countries, and the company continues to expand into new geographical markets as wireless networks become more widespread throughout the world. Privately-held, Cambridge Broadband Networks has headquarters in Cambridge, UK, with offices in Malaysia and South Africa and manufacturing facilities in China.
About the MTN Group
Launched in 1994, the MTN Group is a multinational telecommunications group, operating in 21 countries in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. The MTN Group is listed on the JSE Securities Exchange in South Africa under the share code: “MTN”. As at 30 June 2010, MTN recorded 129,2 million subscribers across its operations in Afghanistan, Benin, Botswana, Cameroon, Cote d’Ivoire, Cyprus, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Republic, Iran, Liberia, Nigeria, Republic of Congo (Congo Brazzaville), Rwanda, South Africa, Sudan, Swaziland, Syria, Uganda, Yemen and Zambia. Visit us at www.mtn.com and www.mtnfootball.com
Sam Tring
Consultant
Babel PR
3rd Floor
11-13 Soho Street
London W1D 3DJ
T. +44 (0)20 7434 5550
D. +44 (0) 20 7434 5557
M. +44 (0)7870 817 666
E. sam@babelpr.com
W. www.babelpr.com
TW: @samtring
