MBNL (Mobile Broadband Network Ltd.) has selected NSN (Nokia Siemens Networks) as technology partner for it’s 3G network integration. In case you are wondering who on earth MBNL are, they are the joint-venture between T-Mobile UK and 3UK.
T-Mobile and 3 previously did a deal to allow them to use each other’s networks – obviously to enable that solution, some infrastructure integration needs to occur – and this where NSN comes in. It will apparently create the UK’s most extensive 3G network, with near total population coverage by the end of 2009.
Obviously another kickback is going to be consolidation, and the roll-out of what should be more consistent and faster mobile broadband access – the buzzword of this year so far.
Although masts and the 3G access networks are being combined, each company’s core network and T-Mobile’s 2G network will not be shared. Both parties will retain responsibility for the delivery of services to their respective customers and use their own frequency spectrum. Nokia Siemens Networks’ industry-leading radio access solution will replace most of the two operators’ communications stations across the UK and equipment at the remaining sites is being upgraded and reconfigured for higher quality and capacity. The solution, featuring energy-efficient Flexi base stations from Nokia Siemens Networks, will allow a reduction the number of sites in the network by about 30 percent.
As well as network infrastructure, Nokia Siemens Networks will deliver project management, network deployment and managed spare parts capability, as well as care services to maintain network performance and increase its efficiency.
Expect to see more shared network announcements as time goes on – the logic behind it is sound, and given the right economic and strategic conditions, other companies will surely follow this path.
The full press release can be found here.