Tokyo--NEC Corporation announced that it has signed a global framework contract with Telenor, Norwegian fixed and mobile telecommunications operator, for the supply of a long-haul, large capacity telecommunication backbone, SDH microwave communication systems in its 3000/5000 Series, point-to-point access microwave radio systems in its Pasolink Series and relating services such as installation and commissioning.

The global framework contract awarded to NEC is one of four contracts covering the Telenor Group's 12 majority-owned affiliates. The 12 affiliates include operators such as Pannon GSM Telecommunications Ltd. of Hungary and GrameenPhone Ltd. of Bangladesh. "Due to the rapid expansion of mobile and broadband markets, especially in Asia, the total demand of Telenor Group's 12 operators for microwave communication systems is estimated to reach over 7,000 links, 50 million Euro of business.

NEC established business in the area of microwave communication systems with Telenor Group in 1980, and has since delivered approximately 1,100 sets of its 3000 Series and 15,000 sets of its Pasolink Series. This framework agreement is attributable to NEC's close relationships with its customers, its long-standing experience in the field, , high level of maintenance services, advanced and high-quality technologies and its leading position in the global microwave communication systems market.

Demand for microwave communication systems owing to its capability to speedily install telecommunication infrastructure and requirements for higher capacity microwave systems are expected to see substantial growth due to the rapid global expansion of mobile subscribers and mobile internet services.

NEC will continue to drive its advantageous position in the mobile and wireless telecommunications systems market to expand its growth and business operations worldwide.