In spite of recent questions regarding the availability of spectrum for next-generation services, Sprint PCS pushed forward last week, announcing two deals with Lucent Technologies Inc. and Nortel Networks to upgrade the carrier’s nationwide network for high-speed services planned for later this year.
The deal with Lucent, valued at $1 billion during the next three years, calls for the infrastructure provider to supply equipment and services for the next phase of Sprint’s wireless network development and expansion. Sprint will deploy Lucent’s base stations, mobile switching centers and wireless intelligent network software enabling the deployment of value-added services. The agreement also includes professional services such as equipment engineering, installation, cell site optimization and project management for network deployment.
Later this year, Lucent is scheduled to begin upgrading base stations on Sprint’s network for cdma2000 1x next-generation services.
“We helped build Sprint’s PCS network from its very beginning, and Lucent looks forward to our continued collaboration on the next phase, including the introduction of high-speed 3G mobile Internet applications,” said Vince Molinaro, senior vice president of Lucent North America.
Nortel’s agreement with Sprint, also valued at $1 billion during the next three years, calls for the deployment of enhanced wireless network equipment and professional services supporting the expansion of Nortel’s portion of Sprint’s network. Nortel said it will provide upgrades to Sprint’s network serving nearly 4.5 million subscribers in 23 markets across the country, including Dallas, Miami, Atlanta and Houston.
“This win demonstrates our leadership and growing momentum in the global wireless Internet race,” said Frank Plastina, president of Nortel’s Wireless and Core Solutions division.
Both companies currently are operating under a five-year agreement to deploy radio base stations and intelligent core networking equipment.
Sprint said the deals are part of its $3.4 billion in planned capital expenditures for this year.
