Wataniya Telecom and Huawei deploy industry's first Nodal IP Microwave Network in Kuwait

Middle East, 19 October, 2011: Huawei, a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider, has announced that it is collaborating with Wataniya Telecom, a leading telecommunications service provider in Kuwait, to deploy an IP-based microwave network with Huawei's OptiX RTN 980. The microwave network will serve as the foundation for an All-IP backhaul network for LTE mobile broadband networking.

As the industry's first nodal IP microwave product, Huawei's OptiX RTN 980 enables the smooth evolution from TDM to All-IP by supporting high-throughput IP convergence with 14 directions and TDM and packet data universal cross-connections. At only 5U (or 22 cm) in height, the compact OptiX RTN 980 has a 22-Gb/s packet cross-connection capacity that is able to support high-density microwave deployments.

"Wataniya Telecom is committed to providing our customers with reliable services through implementing the latest technology. The strategic decision for an IP-based network reform is important to our company as we prepare our mobile backhaul network for future evolution," said Hisham Siblini, CTO of Wataniya Telecom. "We believe that Huawei's IP microwave solution will enable a successful transition to a network that supports All-IP broadband services, and will have a significant impact on enhancing the mobile broadband experience of Wataniya's subscribers."

Wataniya Telecom saw a need to revamp its TDM mobile backhaul carrier network to support the deployment of the latest mobile broadband technologies and IP-based networks so as to realize the potential of LTE. The company spent a year assessing and testing products from a number of major IP microwave solution providers before selecting Huawei's OptiX RTN series for its uniform TDM/Hybrid/Packet platform and the company's dedication and expertise in assisting operators to evolve their networks.

PAN Yong, CTO of Huawei Kuwait, said: "We are excited to be extending our successful partnership with Wataniya Telecom with the deployment of our cutting-edge IP-based microwave network technology. Huawei's extensive range of All-IP mobile backhaul solutions is built on our understanding of operators' needs and experience in delivering innovative products that enable customers to realize high growth potential and returns in investment."

Huawei is committed to providing advanced WDM/OTN, MSTP/Hybrid MSTP and microwave products, and end-to-end transport network solutions to operators worldwide. According to Skylight Consulting Inc, Huawei ranked first in the packet radio market and second in the global radio market, as of the first quarter of 2011.

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About Huawei
Huawei is a leading global information and communications technology (ICT) solutions provider. Through our dedication to customer-centric innovation and strong partnerships, we have established end-to-end advantages in telecom networks, devices and cloud computing. We are committed to creating maximum value for telecom operators, enterprises and consumers by providing competitive solutions and services. Our products and solutions have been deployed in over 140 countries, serving more than one third of the world's population. For more information, visit Huawei online: www.huawei.com

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