Microwave networking firm Aviat Networks has announced at technology conference AfricaCom that it is deploying an ultra-high capacity microwave radio solution for mobile operator MTN Ghana.

The deal forms part of an upgrade of the Ghanaian mobile operator’s backhaul network to full IP capacity.

Dubbed the STR600, the technology is set to form part of an ultra-high capacity ring network delivering more than 1.8Gbps data throughput.

Aviat's STR600 also enables MTN Ghana to upgrade its existing Aviat Eclipse backbone network without having to deploy new all-indoor trunking radios.

The technology is also planned to make the most of MTN Ghana's licensed frequency spectrum with performance enhancing techniques to overcome possible transmission problems posed by the atmosphere over long microwave paths.

STR600 is available in the 6, 7, 8 and 11GHz frequency bands.

"For many years, we have built our backhaul network using Aviat's Eclipse hybrid platform, and now we are migrating the entire network to IP," says Hendrik Vorster, chief technical officer, MTN Ghana.

"The STR600 enables us to significantly increase our backbone capacity while maintaining compatibility with our Eclipse installed base," says Vorster.

Stuart Little, director of solutions marketing, Aviat Networks says, "A trend is underway in Africa for many mobile operators to decrease site infrastructure and optimize operational expenditure by deploying new split-mount trunk radio solutions as an alternative to traditional all-indoor radios.”

“Our STR600 solution allows operators to drastically reduce, or eliminate, the need for large site shelters and air conditioning systems," Little adds.