China-based telecom equipment manufacturer ZTE has signed a framework agreement with Libya Telecom and Technology to build a large-scale WiMAX 802.16e commercial network in Africa.

The network will cover eight major cities in Libya including its capital, Tripoli. Under the agreement, ZTE will provide IP WiMAX products and services including compact and high-capacity base stations, access gateway, network management system, MPLS and IMS.

In deploying the WiMAX network in Libya, ZTE will install MIMO, OFDMA and high-efficiency power amplifiers, among other technologies.
These will help enhance the coverage radius of the network and reduce the required number of base stations and allow LTT to speed up network installation.

The network will provide various mobile access services including VoIP, high-speed download and mobile television using mobile broadband connections.

The network is expected to be completed and ready for service by the third quarter of 2008. It did not disclose a value for the deal.