UK-based Marconi Corporation is to supply a complete radio network planning solution to the GSM subsidiaries of Orascom Telecom to support the mobile operator’s plans to further enhance and extend its networks globally.

Under a multiple year frame contract announced, Marconi will provide the GSM subsidiaries of Orascom Telecom Holding, one of the largest regional telecommunications operators in the Middle East and North Africa, with a full end-to-end solution, including Planet EV software, wireless consultancy services, training and maintenance support.
“The Marconi solution will support the GSM subsidiaries of Orascom Telecom to deploy multi-technology networks such as GSM, CDMA2000, and UMTS in a cost-effective and reliable way, providing consistent coverage and high-quality networks for its customers,” a Marconi spokesman said.
Using Planet EV, Marconi’s next-generation wireless network design and optimisation platform, along with advanced microwave planning and propagation modelling modules, Orascom can accurately determine and deploy the required radio coverage and capacity, reduce equipment investment and operational expenses, and introduce new services, he added.
The spokesman said Marconi’s wireless consultancy services would support Orascom to rapidly deploy and optimise the network as well as realise the full potential of the Planet EV solution. Together, Marconi would assist Orascom in reaching its network and business objectives more quickly and efficiently.
“Marconi met all of our needs and hence became our preferred choice for the supply of design tools and consultancy services needed for our roll-out of Mobile and fixed wireless networks into new territories,” said Tamer El Mahdi, Orascom Telecom Holding’s chief technology officer.
Kevin Hankins, head of Marconi’s Wireless Business Unit,  observed: “Our Planet EV platform is unmatched in integrated design and optimisation capabilities, and provides a foundation for long-term growth and efficiency.”
Meanwhile, Marconi Middle East chairman Fadhil Alibrahim has announced the appointment of Bryan Simms as the new regional managing director.  He will take up his appointment in Riyadh on 1st September 2005. Simms had spent some time in Saudi Arabia as the general manager for Marconi Middle East, managing a number of highly successful projects.