Alcatel-Lucent and China Mobile sign comprehensive frame agreement that includes IP networking and 4G TD-LTE technology paving way for future network functions virtualization and cloud-based services

Alcatel-Lucent  and China Mobile, the world’s largest mobile operator, today announced a one-year comprehensive frame agreement valued at up to Euro 750 million to provide technology that will move the world’s largest mobile service provider to an all-IP ultra-broadband network paving the way for future network functions virtualization and cloud-based services. 

The announcement coincides with a visit to France by Chinese president Xi Jinping to commemorate the 50th anniversary of French-Chinese diplomatic relations. Alcatel-Lucent has a long commitment to China and is marking the 30th anniversary of Alcatel-Lucent Shanghai Bell as a major player in China’s telecom industry.

Today’s significant agreement builds on an already long-standing relationship between China Mobile and strengthens Alcatel-Lucent’s critical role in the world’s largest mobile network.  In 2013, China Mobile selected Alcatel-Lucent to provide its innovative lightRadio™ 4G TD-LTE overlay, Evolved Packet Core and small cells technology to support the new 4G network. 

At Mobile World Congress 2014, China Mobile and Alcatel-Lucent demonstrated their progress in the development of network functions virtualization (NFV) for mobile operators. Using Alcatel-Lucent’s virtualized proof of concept LTE radio access network Baseband Unit and its virtualized evolved packet core in a multi-vendor environment, the companies demonstrated how an open mobile cloud network enhances agility, efficiency and scale.

Key Facts:

• China Mobile is the world’s largest mobile operator and reaches more than 750 million subscribers across the country.
• Alcatel-Lucent has had a major presence in China for more than 30 years through Alcatel-Lucent Shanghai Bell.
• Agreement makes Alcatel-Lucent a key provider of technology ranging from IP networking to ultra-broadband access , including, but not limited to:
o Wireless ultra-broadband access technology, such as lightRadio 4G TD-LTE overlay and upgrades to existing networks in preparation for 4G TD-LTE deployment as well as the lighRadio Metro Radio Outdoor (MRO) Small Cells co-created by China Mobile and Alcatel-Lucent.
o IP Networking, such as Evolved Packet Core (EPC), IP routing technology and next generation optics transmission, such as OTN 100G technology.
o Fixed ultra-broadband access technology, such as GPON.
o Professional services.