MOSCOW—The second-biggest Russian carrier Vimpelcom (BeeLine) chose Alcatel as its equipment supplier for a third-generation (3G) network.
The companies signed a memo of intent, which envisages that the KB Impulse, a 100-percent Vimpelcom subsidiary, will trial the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) technology. KB Impulse was chosen by the Russian Communications Ministry to test UMTS electromagnetic compatibility with operating wireless systems to confirm commercial capabilities of the 3G technology.
“We are glad jointly with Alcatel to test the UMTS system in Moscow…and assess its market potential,” said Sergei Avdeyev, Vimpelcom vice president in charge of network planning and development.
Alcatel is to supply its Evolium solution, including UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network, CORE equipment, and a radio network controller and multimedia equipment.
Vimpelcom was the first Russian carrier to launch the 2.5-generation General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technology this year. The carrier planned to introduce charges for the service in October, but extended the gratis period indefinitely, as the number of clients was only 1,000.
