Nortel GSM Network Helps Navy Provide Relief For Tsunami Victims

Nortel Networks is providing the United States Navy with communications technology to aid in its humanitarian relief efforts in tsunami-ravaged Indonesia.

Together with Cell-Tel Government Systems, Inc., Maritime Telecommunications Network and Global Broadband Solutions, Nortel has dispatched a team of engineers and technicians to deploy a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) solution to enable communications for the USNS Mercy hospital ship off the shore of Bandeh Aceh. Described as a "fly-away transportable solution," the GSM system is designed to set up quickly wherever there is satellite communications access.

The GSM system supplements the Navy's existing radio network, extending its reach by up to ten miles from the ship. The increased capacity supports the high volume of ship-to-shore communications for the Mercy's medical and relief personnel on board and working in Bandeh Aceh,

"There are few things more rewarding than being part of a humanitarian effort," said Bill Owens, president and chief executive officer, Nortel. "It gives Nortel great pride to assist the Navy in this critical mission. The power of communications is at its greatest when it is harnessed to help those in need."