Ericsson expands Aero2/Polkomtel networks

Swedish vendor Ericsson has been selected by Aero2 and Polkomtel to extend the cellcos’ shared 3G and 4G networks. Under the terms of the agreement, Ericsson will supply W-CDMA and Long Term Evolution (LTE) infrastructure, as well as additional services including design, deployment, integration and support for the upgraded network for a three-year period. The upgrade work will expand the footprint and capabilities of the networks in northern and western Poland, allowing the operators to cope with the growing popularity of smartphones and increasing demand for mobile broadband. Ericsson has been a partner of Polkomtel since 2002 and has continued the association after the provider changed hands last year. As noted by TeleGeography’s GlobalComms Database, Aero2 is one of the telcos held by Polish media mogul Zygmunt Solorz-Zak, who took over Polkomtel in late 2011. The duo signed a full infrastructure agreement in April 2012, allowing Polkomtel access to Aero2’s 4G network until it is able to bid for its own 4G frequencies.