VimpelCom selects Alcatel's mobile Next Generation Network solution for deployment

(I-Newswire) August 5, 2005 - This solution will enable VimpelCom to reduce the operating costs of its mobile GSM/GPRS core network while optimizing its costs for 3G/UMTS introduction, thus ensuring long-term investment protection in preparing for the introduction of IP Multimedia Subsystems (IMS). The project is scheduled for completion in Q3, 2005.

Alcatel provides VimpelCom with its Alcatel Spatial Atrium innovative, standard-based distributed mobile switching solution. The cornerstone of this solution is the Alcatel 5020 Spatial Atrium Softswitch, a multi-standard and field-proven mobile call server controlling distributed media gateways and managing call/session control for voice and data services.

Sergey Avdeev, vice-president VimpelCom commented: "Mobile communications in Russia is developing very dynamically. Alcatel solution for distributed core networking solutions enable us to successfully solve the tasks related to networks' development and introduction of perspective technologies. Alcatel provides distributed core networking solutions that are deployed in commercial mobile networks around the globe. Facing the increasing demand for emerging mobile services solutions, we want to make sure we have the more innovative, efficient ways to grow our network and solutions to meet customers' requirements".

"Alcatel's mobile NGN solution contributes once step further to our delivering on the promises of a user-centric broadband world - one where users can enjoy services and interact seamlessly from any location and over different terminals," said Marc Rouanne, chief operating officer of Alcatel's mobile communications activities. " Through the delivery of Alcatel's mobile NGN solution we are committed to help VimpelCom to provide market leading solution".

About VimpelCom
VimpelCom is a leading international provider of telecommunications services, operating under the "Beeline" brand in Russia and Kazakhstan. In addition, VimpelCom is continuing to use the "K-mobile" and "EXCESS" brands in Kazakhstan. The VimpelCom Group's license portfolio covers approximately 94% of Russia's population (136 million people), including the City of Moscow, the Moscow Region and the City of St. Petersburg as well as the entire territory of Kazakhstan. VimpelCom was the first Russian company to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE"). VimpelCom's shares are listed on the NYSE under the symbol "VIP". http://www.vimpelcom.com.

About Alcatel
Alcatel provides communications solutions to telecommunication carriers, Internet service providers and enterprises for delivery of voice, data and video applications to their customers or employees. Alcatel brings its leading position in fixed and mobile broadband networks; applications and services, to help its partners and customers build a user-centric broadband world. With sales of EURO 12.3 billion and 56,000 employees in 2004, Alcatel operates in more than 130 countries


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