Using network functions virtualisation (NFV), the deployment will provide Etisalat with greater flexibility and efficiency in its RAN operations; enabling the operator to meet the growing demands for data from its subscribers.
Alcatel-Lucent’s solution, the 9771 Wireless Cloud Element Radio Network Controller (WCE), will be deployed in Etisalat’s networks in the UAE and Sri Lanka under its network modernisation program, and is the first of its kind in these countries.
Etisalat was the first to deploy the WCE platform in Mobily’s Saudi Arabia network earlier this year.
“We are focussed on meeting the growing and diverse data demands of our customers in a very innovative and efficient way,” said Hatem Bamatraf, CTO at Etisalat.
“Following the successful deployment of the WCE in the Mobily network in Saudi Arabia we are pleased to continue our work with Alcatel-Lucent and leverage its cloud expertise to continue to deliver the high performance our customers expect even as their demands grow further.”
Alcatel-Lucent has shown commendable commitment to the development of NFV and Amr El-Leithy, president of Middle East, Africa, Turkey and Azerbaijan at Alcatel-Lucent, said that the deployment with Etisalat emphasises its innovative approach to the technology.
“Our carrier-class, real-time, signalling software of the WCE leverages our cloud expertise and will bring greater efficiency and flexibility to the control of the radio elements in Etisalat’s network,” he added.
