Europe : Alcatel-Lucent and SETAR NV, the leading telecommunications service provider in Aruba, have activated the first third-generation UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) and HSDPA (High-Speed Downlink Packet Access) network in the Caribbean. The launch of this new network will increase the capacity of SETAR’s network and enable it to offer its customers and visitors to Aruba a range of sophisticated, next-generation services, including advanced multimedia, mobile broadband and converged services such as video-on-demand, video call, mobile TV and high-speed mobile Internet access.

The deployment was conducted under a September 2006 agreement to deliver equipment and related services to further expand the coverage of its mobile network to large geographical areas while offering high bit rates, low latency and full mobility.

“Alcatel-Lucent’s advanced wireless solution is helping us simplify our network operation, reduce our expenses and will enable us to increase our revenue by making useful new mobile services available to every citizen in Aruba,” said Roland Croes, CEO of SETAR NV. “Alcatel-Lucent is a proven market leader in wireless solutions and has been a reliable partner as we have been expanding our business. They possess the right combination of products, services and support to help us meet our customers’ demands for advanced services.”

Under the terms of a frame agreement between the two companies, Alcatel-Lucent has provided SETAR with its comprehensive radio networking solution including base stations, radio network and base station controllers (RNC/BSC), wireless network management system solutions and engineering tools. Alcatel-Lucent was also responsible for network design and complete network deployment, including network integration and maintenance services.

“Throughout our long-standing partnership with SETAR, one of the most innovative and advanced service providers in the region, we have supported their business in a number of ways, providing switching, Optical, DSL and ATM solutions, as well as a CDMA/EVDO network that enables roaming service with North American operators, in addition to GSM and WiFi networks,” said Olivier Picard, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s activities for Europe and South. “This agreement further proves SETAR’s confidence in our leading-edge technology and our service teams.”

“We are committed to support SETAR on its journey to build nationwide 3G UMTS/HSPA coverage, opening new and exciting opportunities for consumers,” Picard added.

Alcatel-Lucent’s 3G UMTS/HSPA solution provides cost-efficient coverage because of the improved radio wave propagation making it easier to provide low-cost mobile broadband services in rural areas as well as improved indoor coverage in urban areas.

As a global leader in the development and deployment of third-generation (3G) networks, Alcatel-Lucent has deployed commercial 3G (UMTS/HSPA and CDMA2000) systems for more than 70 operators worldwide.