Idea cellular has chosen Ericsson as its telecom equipment vendor for 2G network modernization and 3G network rollout in Delhi. Ericsson has secured the deal from Idea Cellular for $45 million.
In February 2014 auction, Idea had secured 5Mhz spectrum in efficient 900Mhz band in Delhi for Rs 3,704.8 crore and announced its plan to rollout 3G network. Idea will be the first company in India to use efficient 900Mhz band for 3G network.
Ericsson will deploy microwave equipment, radio access network (RAN) and Operations Support Systems (OSS) for Idea Cellular's 2G and 3G network. Ericsson will also provide network design and manged service for Idea Cellular's 2G and 3G network.
Idea has recently announced its plan to upgrade at least 70% of its network to 3G from the current 40% in the next three years. This deal will provide boost to its plan to be a dominant player in mobile internet space in India.
