Nokia has won its first network deal with Bulgarian operator Vivatel. Nokia will improve GSM coverage in the Vivatel network and prepare it for 3G launch by supplying GSM/EDGE/WCDMA 3G/HSDPA radio network and 3G core network, and related services.

Nokia will supply Vivatel radio network including GSM and Nokia Flexi WCDMA base stations, and cellular transmission. Nokia will also become Vivatel's sole 3G core network supplier and deliver Nokia IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), Nokia Flexi Intelligent Service Node (ISN) and Nokia MSC Server mobile softswitch. The network will be supported by the multivendor Nokia NetAct network and service management system. Deliveries had already started in August 2006.

Nokia's services team will ensure efficient and timely completion of the network project. Nokia will provide project management, network planning, consulting and integration, and maintenance services, and will operate the network during the initial phase of the project.

"Nokia's high-quality, reliable products and their end-to-end capability sealed our decision to select Nokia," says Richard Shearer, CEO of Vivatel. "This benefits our customers, as initially they will be able to enjoy improved GSM coverage, and later we will launch 3G services."