Europe : Ericsson has been chosen by Israeli operator Pelephone to deliver a new WCDMA/HSPA network migrating from an existing CDMA network. The new countrywide network will include the latest cutting edge technology from Ericsson for mobile broadband.

Pelephone, an Israeli mobile operator with more than 2.5 million subscribers, has chosen Ericsson as the partner for the creation of its new WCDMA/HSPA mobile broadband network. Ericsson will deliver Radio Base Stations and the latest technology in soft switches over a period of one year. Upon finalization, Pelephone will offer its customers nationwide coverage with the latest HSPA technology. The agreement will strengthen Pelephone's position as a leading Israeli 3G network operator and service provider.

Fully owned by Bezeq, the largest and leading telecommunications corporation in Israel, Pelephone is a major mobile operator in Israel, that led the country to a mobile penetration rate that is one of the highest in the world.

Ericsson's High-Speed Packet Access (HSPA) solution provides increased data speeds by introducing significant enhancements in the uplink and the downlink. The advanced technology boosts network capacity and cuts response times for interactive services, increasing the performance of mobile broadband. The contract also covers support services, deployment, integration and educational services.

Gil Sharon, President and CEO at Pelephone, says: "The decision to select Ericsson allows Pelephone to solidify its position as the most advanced cellular operator and the only operator in Israel to offer two state-of-the-art technologies so that its customers can benefit from a range of cutting-edge services and content in the technology of their choice.

"We are buying the superior HSPA cellular technology which will permit our customers to continue to enjoy the best communication services in Israel in upcoming years and will help Pelephone regain its leadership in the cellular industry."

Mats Bosrup, President and CEO at Ericsson Israel, says: "We are extremely proud to be selected by Pelephone as its sole supplier to deliver Ericsson's most advanced HSPA products. It will give Pelephone the best possible position on the sophisticated Israeli market. The advanced WCDMA/HSPA radio network will contribute to bringing faster mobile broadband as well as voice service to a greater number of Israeli consumers. This contract further emphasizes Ericsson's leadership in mobile networks."

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.