Erbil, Iraq, June 4, 2013 - Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) and Regional Telecom, a communications service provider in Northern Iraq have celebrated the launch of Iraq’s first 4G LTE network, providing under the Fastlink brand the region with a lightning-fast wireless broadband services including high-definition video streaming, high-speed Internet access and a range of business applications.

Key Facts:

·         Regional Telecom under the Fastlink brand is the first to offer large-scale wireless broadband services in Iraq.

·         Alcatel-Lucent is providing its industry-leading end-to-end 4G LTE solution, including base stations, IP mobile backhaul for 4G LTE and existing 3G CDMA traffic, Evolved Packet Core (EPC) and elements of its platforms, which will allow Regional Telecom to introduce a rich portfolio of advanced IP-based services.

·         4G LTE technology will play a key role in helping Regional Telecom restore the region’s communication infrastructure.

·         High-speed mobile broadband network will provide significant support to ongoing efforts to revive the Iraqi economy, bringing levels of connectivity needed for business, public sector and consumer applications, particularly at a time when global demand for Internet services continues to grow.

Quotes:

Kawa Junad, Chairman of Regional Telecom, said: “Industry trends as well as our own experiences make it perfectly clear that high-speed mobile broadband is the major growth opportunity for the foreseeable future, and we are excited to be able to bring this impressive capability to our customers in Iraq. With the support of our dedicated partner Alcatel-Lucent, our 4G LTE services in Northern Iraq, Kurdistan Region, promise a significant contribution to the country’s efforts in further connecting with the global digital community.” 

Amr K. El-Leithy Head of Middle East Africa, Turkey and Azerbaijan in Alcatel-Lucent said: “We are very pleased to have been selected to deliver this major transformation of the network and to bring the benefits of Alcatel-Lucent’s innovative solutions and superior network performance to under-served regions to help promote economic growth and drive new business opportunities.  This new agreement is a testament to our strong partnership and part of our vision to bring the full benefits of the Networked Society, both to Regional Telecom and to Iraq.”

About Alcatel-Lucent and 4G LTE

With more than 35 LTE contracts for commercial deployments including two of the largest LTE network roll-outs, and engagement in more than 40 LTE trials worldwide, Alcatel-Lucent has established a strong global leadership position in 4G LTE. Please visit our website to learn more about our 4G LTE solution.