21 January, 2005: MTC-Vodafone has launched its 3G network in Bahrain -the first nationwide 3G WCDMA network in the Middle East. The network was rolled-out in record time in a joint cooperation with Future Communications Company International (FCCI), Nokia's value-added reseller for networks in the Middle East, and Nokia.

Nokia supplied MTC-Vodafone Bahrain's with the necessary 3G WCDMA radio access network. In August 2003, MTC-Vodafone (Bahrain) became the first operator in the Middle East to implement an EDGE/WCDMA network, using Nokia network equipment supplied by FCC. Within one year of the commercial launch of its GSM/EDGE network it gained over 100,000 customers across the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Under an expansion agreement announced in September 2004, FCCI has delivered Nokia WCDMA radio-access network, including WCDMA base stations, Radio Network Controllers and other network equipment, plus operational support services. FCCI also carried out the network implementation and integration, supported by Nokia.

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