Swedish telecommunications equipment provider Ericsson recently announced that it has signed a cooperation agreement with Indian GSM service provider Idea Cellular, whereby Ericsson will construct Idea's GSM network in Mumbai for US$100 million over a four-year period.

Construction on the GSM network is due to kick off soon, and the service is slated for commercialization in May 2008, Hindu Business Line reported.

Pursuant to the agreement, Ericsson will supply radio access, microwave transmission, and core network equipment, as well as the company's mobile softswitch solution. In addition, Ericsson will be responsible for network deployment and integration as well.