Saudi Telecom expands broadband GPON/ DSL network to offer innovative triple play services in additional locations

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) has announced that it has signed a multi-million Euro frame contract with Saudi Telecom, the main telecommunications operator in Saudi Arabia and the biggest Arab operator, to expand, extend and upgrade its existing broadband network to serve an additional two million residential and enterprise customers by the end of 2010. Underserved customers in areas of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will now be able to enjoy innovative triple play services such as IPTV and converged communications. The network upgrade is made possible by the enhanced aggregation and transport features of Alcatel-Lucent's broadband access, IP, optical and services solutions.

"Our strong presence in Saudi Arabia and our long-term history with Saudi Telecom enabled us to understand its network requirements, and work together to provide the best solution in an optimal timeframe," said Vincenzo Nesci, Alcatel-Lucent's Vice President for Middle East and Africa.

Under the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent will provide its packet optical transport solution for DSLAM traffic aggregation and Ethernet business services, along with its DSL and GPON /MSAN technology. The company will also leverage its services expertise in the areas of project management, network analysis, software integration, integration services and technical support services to deliver a true turnkey services solution. This provides better coverage for broadband services and increases the bandwidth for enhanced applications, such as IPTV and other innovative triple play services. (C) 2009 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)

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