VimpelCom has begun testing base stations from the domestic developer Irteya. If the testing is successful, the operator may conclude a contract for an amount from 20 billion to 30 billion rubles. This is reported by journalists with reference to a source in the telecommunications equipment market.
It is claimed that Irteya participates in VimpelCom's procurement at the level of 30-40% of the total volume, which amounts to up to 1000 base stations. The operator plans to test equipment from all suppliers, but may subsequently conclude a forward contract for 10 thousand stations until 2030.
Independent expert Alexei Slukin emphasizes that the cost of 10 thousand Irteya base stations may amount to 20-30 billion rubles. The company's equipment is also being tested by other operators, such as MegaFon. Irteya has production facilities, which allows it to fulfill large orders and successfully compete in the market.
VimpelCom previously concluded contracts with other manufacturers, including Yadro, which will supply 55 thousand base stations. Analyst Alexei Boyko believes that the presence of several manufacturers in the market will help maintain the quality of equipment and reduce dependence on one vendor. He also adds that it is important for Irteya to expand its customer base so as not to rely on one operator.
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