Finnish operator DNA has signed a deal with Ericsson to supply a new, nationwide LTE 800 MHz network and to improve existing 4G, 3G and 2G networks. The LTE network is expected to cover 80 percent of Finland’s population by the end of 2014.

Finnish operator DNA has signed a deal with Ericsson to supply a new, nationwide LTE 800 MHz network and to improve existing 4G, 3G and 2G networks. The LTE network is expected to cover 80 percent of Finland’s population by the end of 2014. DNA also aims to improve 4G, 3G and 2G networks so customers are able to enjoy higher data rates outside major urban areas.

Ericsson is deploying the its multi-standard RBS 6000 family of base stations and network management solutions. Alongside the products, Ericsson will provide network rollout services such as installation, civil works, integration, commissioning and associated project management. In addition, Ericsson will provide support for software and hardware, spare parts management services and initial tuning.

With this expansion, operator aims to provide high-quality mobile broadband services to customers all over Finland, particularly to those outside the major urban areas. DNA plans to carry out LTE rollout and 3G network coverage improvements simultaneously, bringing 3G population coverage up to 99% of the population, which is nearly equal to the current GSM coverage.