Ericsson Wins in Algeria

STOCKHOLM -- Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) has been selected by leading operator Algérie Télécom as sole supplier and systems integrator for its network upgrade. The move sets the stage for Algérie Télécom to migrate to an all-IP network.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will supply its Telephony Softswitch solution to migrate the operator's national transit layer to a next-generation network architecture. Ericsson will also be responsible for network deployment, support, and training services. Deployment and systems integration will start in November, with the migration set to be completed by mid-2008.

Ericsson's Telephony Softswitch solution provides a simplified network architecture that enables the evolution towards an all-IP network by delivering full telephony services over IP infrastructure.

The deal builds upon Ericsson's 30-year relationship with Algérie Télécom and will evolve the operator's circuit-switched network to a multi-service network, allowing it to cost-effectively increase network speed, quality and capacity, and introduce high-speed broadband services to its 3.5 million subscribers.

Slimane Khireddine, Chief Executive Officer at Algérie Télécom, says: "This deal paves the way for the modernization of our network, a move that will cement our market-leading position while preparing us for the introduction of innovative multimedia services. By partnering with Ericsson, we can leverage our existing infrastructure and make our network future-proof."

Ericsson AB (Nasdaq: ERIC)