The Swedish vendor will supply a new, nationwide LTE network for DNA, as well as improve its existing 2G, 3G and 4G networks in Finland.
"We are looking forward to continue our close co-operation with Ericsson and to expand our high-quality mobile broadband services to customers all over Finland, particularly to those outside the major urban areas,” said Tommy Olenius, VP of technology at DNA.
“Together with the 4G LTE roll-out, also 3G network coverage improvements will be carried out simultaneously, bringing 3G coverage up to 99% of the population, which is nearly equal to the current GSM coverage," he added.
The 4G LTE network will be deployed on DNA’s 800MHz spectrum band, and Ericsson will deploy its multi-standard RBS 6000 portfolio of base stations, as well as network management solutions.
“The project will see an enhanced mobile broadband experience offered to DNA’s customers through a high-capacity LTE network,” said Robert Puskaric, head of region northern Europe and central Asia at Ericsson. “We will leverage our combined technology and services leadership to deliver this improved experience to DNA’s subscribers.”
Ericsson will also deliver network installation, integration, commissioning and project management services for the new LTE network, and DNA hopes it to cover 80% of the Finnish population by the year end.
In November last year, DNA appointed Jukka Leinonen as CEO, following Riitta Tiuraniemi’s departure earlier in 2013.
