Bahrain digital communications solutions provider Batelco said recently that more Bahrani mobile phone users will be able to find service, thanks to the installation of the region’s first LTE AIR site.

AIR stands for antenna integrated radio and uses specialized towers that combine broadcasting functions that would normally require two separate towers. Batelco officials said the smaller, simplified AIR towers are easier to install and maintain, less of a blight on the environment and are more energy efficient.

“We are very pleased to be working with Ericsson, our long-term partner, to make this Middle East-first deployment a reality,” Batelco Bahrain CEO Muna Al-Hashemi said. “For mobile subscribers, the AIR base stations, which are compatible with 2G, 3G and 4G networks, can improve coverage in environments that were difficult to reach with traditional mobile towers. The LTE AIR delivered by Batelco will allow us to provide coverage where our customers need it, meaning we can maintain high quality service levels at all times and across all locations.”

Ericsson and Batelco have collaborated for more than 20 years. Ericsson officials praised the latest deal as a boon for business and customers alike.

“Mobile broadband is now an integral part of our everyday life,” Ericsson President for the Middle East and Africa Rafiah Ibrahim said. “Ericsson LTE solution will enable Batelco Bahrain to expand its coverage to more areas while providing more network capacity.”