UK operator Telefónica O2 to has selected Nokia Siemens Networks to modernize its radio network, expanding capacity, coverage and performance. The deal means Nokia Siemens Networks will provide approximately two-thirds of O2’s 3G access network in the UK, covering the south of England, said Nokia Siemens Networks in a statement.

“Our Flexi Multiradio Base Station is recognized as the market leader. The hardware being delivered now, as well as providing O2 customers with faster data rates and better connectivity, will also allow support for future LTE services with a simple software upgrade,” said Rob Stent, head of customer team for Telefónica O2 UK and Ireland at Nokia Siemens Networks.

Under the contract, Nokia Siemens Networks has supplied its energy-efficient, LTE-ready, cost-saving Flexi Multiradio Base Station, the latest Radio Network Controller and its network management system NetAct for efficient configuration, optimizing and monitoring of the network. The deal also covers services including network implementation, project management, advanced technical support and consultancy services to ensure rapid network deployment for O2 during 2011.