19th September - Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) has signed a turnkey contract with Vodafone Netherlands to deploy the Ericsson Automatic Data Retention Solution (ADRS), bringing the operator in line with a new EU directive. This marks a world-first deployment of the Ericsson ADRS.

Under the contract, Ericsson will deliver a turnkey solution - from systems integration to business support systems - for Vodafone Netherlands' existing network.

The contract highlights Ericsson's leadership in data retention solutions and its ability to deliver end-to-end expertise spanning products and systems integration.

Ericsson's solution enables operators to collect, store and deliver data in accordance with EU directive 2006/24/EC on data retention. Under the directive, operators must store traffic data for up to 24 months. The directive is set to be incorporated into national laws by September 15, 2007, and will eventually become mandatory for all European operators.

Fredrik Alatalo, Head of Ericsson's Core and IMS product line, says: "This deal extends Ericsson's long-standing relationship with Vodafone Netherlands, and the world-first deployment of Ericsson ADRS marks an industry milestone. Ericsson's end-to-end solution provides flexibility and scalability and is compliant with national regulations regarding data availability, integrity and protection."

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.