ATLANTA-Nortel Networks and BellSouth Corp. signed a memorandum of understanding regarding a long-term global supply agreement that makes Nortel Networks’ communications equipment, software and services available to BellSouth at competitive prices, said the companies.
“By being able to bring to the market wireless Internet, Internet telephony and optical Internet and intranet services, BellSouth can enhance its competitive advantage,” said Ian Craig, president, carrier solutions, Nortel Networks.
More than 6 million of BellSouth’s residential and business lines are served from Nortel Networks’ equipment, said the companies. In addition, BCP in Brazil and CellCom in Israel are BellSouth affiliated properties that use Nortel Networks’ wireless solutions.
“Nortel Networks’ switching and other network equipment are critical components of our regionwide wired systems,” said Elton King, BellSouth Telecommunications Group president-network carrier and services.
The multibillion dollar agreement is expected to be in place on or before July 31.
