Ukrainian fixed line operator Ukrtelecom has announced plans to launch what it claims to be the first 3G network in the country. The operator on Friday said it has tapped Nokia for the supply of 3G core and radio networks to its Utel wireless unit.

The network will be launched in the Kiev area, from where it can be rolled out to other parts of the country.

Nokia will be the sole supplier of Utel’s core and radio network covering the Kiev area. The contract includes Nokia’s 3G radio solutions, such as the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station and the Nokia HSDPA software. The network will be supported by the multivendor, multitechnology Nokia NetAct network and service management system.