Alcatel joins Siemens for Qatarnet 3G network build

Qatar’s monopoly cellco Qatarnet, wholly owned by incumbent Q-Tel, has contracted Alcatel to carry out part of the deployment of its 3G mobile network. Alcatel will provide the operator with its Evolium UMTS radio access solution to upgrade the existing GSM/GPRS network in selected coverage areas. Alcatel has previously worked with Qatarnet to roll out its 2G network. The deal follows an agreement announced in July whereby Qatarnet contracted Siemens to commission, supply and install a complete W-CDMA network, including base stations capable of supporting an upgrade to HSDPA services. Qatarnet has already begun trials of 3G and is targeting 125,000 subscribers within the first two years of operation.