Orange is outsourcing its mobile network operations in the UK to Nokia Siemens Networks. Under the contract, Nokia Siemens Networks will manage, expand and provide maintenance services for the Orange UK 2G/3G mobile network for the next five years. The deal aims to deliver improved quality of service and enhanced coverage for Orange UK’s 15.9 million mobile subscribers, while driving operational efficiency. Orange will continue to own and strategically plan its network.

Nokia Siemens Networks is also finalising arrangements for a UK sub-contractor to provide first line maintenance services. As part of the outsourcing arrangement, close to 470 staff will transfer from Orange UK with approximately 230 joining Nokia Siemens Networks and the remainder being transferred to a first line maintenance sub-contractor.

Pete Marsden, VP of IT & Networks for Orange UK, commented, “Nokia Siemens Networks has a proven global expertise in managing large, multi-technology networks, and our partnership with the company is a win-win for all involved.” Mr Marsden also commented on the future of the Orange employees being transferred, “Nokia Siemens Networks will provide our transferring employees with strong career paths within global organizations recognised as telecommunications industry leaders.”

No financial details were released.