Ericsson has announced it is providing the technology behind SingTel’s 4G LTE network.
Last December, SingTel became the first operator to launch commercial 4G/LTE services in Singapore.
The Sweden-based vendor said the network transformation project was all encompassing including installation, commissioning and radio optimization services.
Specifically, Ericsson has provided technology including Evolved Packet Core, Evolved Packet Gateway, self-organizing networks and OSS for the radio and core networks.
SingTel’s 3G network has been upgraded to peak rates of 42Mbps, using Dual Carrier technology (DC-HSPA).
It has spectrum in the 1.8GHz and 2.6GHz frequency bands and is aiming for 80 percent 4G LTE coverage by the end of this year and full island-wide coverage by early 2013.
“Partnering with a leading carrier such as SingTel is of key importance to Ericsson as SingTel is one of the most advanced carriers in the region,” said Nicholas Seow, Ericsson’s president and country manager for Singapore and Brunei.
The two companies have a relationship that dates back to 2003.
Singtel said it is planning to deploy heterogeneous network solutions, including small cells designed to cater for high-traffic areas.
Further, Ericsson said the network is easily upgradeable via software to support LTE-Advanced.
Last month, LG-Ericsson signed a deal with South Korean operator LG U+.