November 18 2008, Leatherhead, UK & Maputo, Mozambique  – AIRCOM International, the leading independent network planning and optimisation consultancy, today announced that it is working with Mozambique operator mcel to support the update of the mcel planning tools for 2G and 3G networks.

In a deal worth USD$ one million, mcel will use AIRCOM’s market-leading network planning and optimisation tools ASSET and OPTIMA to plan and manage its new 3G UMTS network, which is currently being deployed.

Commenting on the new agreement, mcel Chief Operations Officer Luis Mhula said, “We already enjoy a long-standing and productive relationship with AIRCOM for our existing network planning and management needs. Now, as mcel introduces 3G into Mozambique, we’re delighted to once again work with AIRCOM – the quality of its tools and the expertise of its consultants makes AIRCOM the natural partner of choice at this exciting time.”

Using the AIRCOM tools, mcel will not only be able to accurately plan the new network implementation, but also monitor its ongoing performance quickly and easily. In addition, as part of the agreement, AIRCOM will carry out measurement and model-tuning, to identify optimal configurations for specific network traffic requirements and conditions.

AIRCOM will also provide support and training for mcel engineering teams as they make the transition from GPRS to 3G.

“We’re delighted that mcel has once again decided to work with AIRCOM for such a momentous project,” said Graham Kemp, Managing Director, Africa at AIRCOM International. “mcel’s decision to once again use AIRCOM’s tools and consultancy is testament to the high quality of service that we provide to all of our customers around the world.”