The GSM Association reported that Kuwait-based wireless operator MTC-Vodafone deployed a GSM-based network in southern Iraq designed to support the reconstruction efforts and non-governmental organizations delivering humanitarian aid. The network reportedly is currently providing coverage along supply routes in the southern Iraqi city of Basra, which is under the control of the British military.
MTC-Vodafone, which was founded in 1983 and is the largest mobile operator in Kuwait serving nearly 700,000 subscribers, said it was granted authority May 26 by the Joint Communications Authority Board Iraq and the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom to install and operate a GSM network. The carrier noted it has delivered a number of handsets and subscriber identity module cards to the British military in Basra.
U.S.-based MCI was authorized last month to install a GSM network around the Iraqi capital of Baghdad.
MTC-Vodafone won a GSM license in Bahrain in April. Kuwait’s MTC partnered with Vodafone Group plc under the U.K. operator’s Partner Network Agreement program, which involves dual branding and international roaming cooperation, last year.
