Advanced Electronics Company (AEC) will manufacture printed circuit boards (PCBs) and conduct testing and integration of switching cabinets following a recent agreement signed with Lucent Technologies.

The SR54 million deal calls for the PCBs to be used in Lucent Technologies' sophisticated switching and transport equipment for the implementation of Saudi Telecom's recently announced telephone expansion projects. "AEC has implemented significant contracts for Lucent in the past (totalling in excess of SR1.41 billion) and has demonstrated excellent technical capabilities, making it one of our Grade A suppliers. This agreement is another example of our commitment to support the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's offset interests in the development and expansion of the telecommunications industry in Saudi Arabia," said president of Lucent Technologies International Michael C. Craft. AEC is a Saudi economic offset company that Lucent has worked with in the past. Among other subcontracts awarded by Lucent to AEC are the assembling and testing of 5ESS digital switching cabinets and the manufacture of circuit boards for switching and transmission equipment.

"This contract emphasises the excellent co-operation between the two companies," said president and CEO of AEC Abdulaziz Sugair. "We also appreciate the visionary outlook of the senior leadership in Saudi Telecom Company in expanding local companies' participation in their expansion projects. This contract is another good indication of the quality and commitment of our workforce, a majority of which are Saudis."

Lucent Technologies, headquartered in Murray Hill, NJ, USA, designs and delivers networks for the world's largest communications service providers. Backed by Bell Labs research and development, Lucent relies on its strengths in mobility, optical, data and voice networking technologies as well as software and services to develop next-generation networks.

AEC specialises in the design, manufacture and support of electronic products and systems for military and commercial customers. It has received the highest international quality certifications including ISO 9001.