Alcatel Deploys Nationwide Backbone in Iraq

By Johanne Torres

TMCnet Contributing Editor

 

French technology provider Alcatel was just awarded a Euro 30 million contract from fixed operator Iraqi Telecommunications & Post Corporation (ITPC) for the company to deliver a higher capacity nation-wide microwave backbone.

 

With the backbone in place, ITPC will be able to provide fixed, mobile and data services quickly in Iraq. Alcatel (News - Alert) will provide a backbone covering 62 sites along three important routes in that country.

 

Specifically, Alcatel will supply its Alcatel 9600 LSY high-capacity long haul digital microwave radio transmission backbone along with Optical Multi-Service Node (OMSN) systems, PDH multiplex and cross connect, with network management, power supply equipment and towers for better control and routing throughout the network.

 

"Taking advantage of our deep knowledge of the Iraqi telecommunications services, we are convinced that this cutting-edge network will contribute to help Iraq to accelerate the reconstruction of their country," stated Vincenzo Nesci, vice president of Alcatel's activities in the Middle East. "This award is a proof of the Alcatel's commitment to provide communication access to the "next billion" people around the world. It will as well reinforce our position in Iraq and in the region in which we have been present for more than 35 years by now."

 

Today's news follows Alcatel's announcement on Wednesday about it being tapped by York County, Pennsylvania to equip them with a microwave radio system for an advanced public safety communications network. The system will provide additional capacity to York County's public safety first responders.

 

Specifically, Alcatel will provide York County with the microwave digital backhaul network, which will includes Alcatel's MDR 8000 product family. Alcatel's MDR-8000 radio, when integrated in the network with land mobile radio units, can improve data transmission and quality of service in the area by interoperating among public safety first responders to enable faster emergency response.

 

Alcatel

-----

Johanne Torres is contributing editor for TMCnet and Internet Telephony magazine. To see more articles by Johanne Torres, please visit Johanne's columnist page.