Ericsson has signed a three-year network modernisation deal with Kyivstar, a Ukraine-based provider of mobile communications services.

Under the terms of the deal, Ericsson is expected to enhance capacity and coverage of Kyivstar’s radio access and core network. By enhancing capacity by more than 30%, Kyivstar anticipates that it would be in a position to manage the expected uptake of mobile data in the network.

Ericsson said that Kyivstar’s core network capacity is expanded by using the Ericsson Mobile Softswitch Solution, which will enable cost-efficient migration to an all-IP network. The deal additionally covers microwave transmission, network deployment, systems integration and support services, as well as competence development for staff.

Kyivstar and Ericsson have also joined forces in the area of advanced mobile technologies, with the first Ukrainian demonstrations of 3G and MMS in 2002 and EDGE in 2004.

Igor Lytovchenko, president of Kyivstar, said: This network modernisation furthers Kyivstar’s strategy of maintaining its technology leadership, while preparing for the launch of mobile broadband services with the introduction of 3G in Ukraine.