Huawei awarded $136mn contract for 4G telecommunications from WA government

The Chinese telecommunications company, Huawei, has been awarded a AU$136mn (US$101.58mn) contract from the Western Australia government.

The contract will see Huawei provide Perth train services, including the Forrestfield-Airport Link, with 4G communication systems, such as voice and data services.

“The Radio Systems Replacement project will deliver a total end-to-end digital radio solution across the PTA’s 180km electrified rail network and the new Forrestfield Airport Link twin tunnels,” Huawei stated.

The recent agreement has raised concerns about the nation’s security, following recent controversy surrounding the firm.

“There are serious strategic issues related to this contract,” remarked Mike Nahan, Western Australia’s Opposition Leader, reported ABC.

SEE ALSO:

• Australia may implement ban on Huawei 5G equipment

• Who is new Huawei Australia CTO Dr David Soldani?

• Perth overtakes Hobart to become Australia’s most affordable capital city

• Read the latest issue of Business Chief, ANZ edition, here

Nahan noted that the largest concern was that the communications projects would be integrated with emergency services data.

The will cause “serious strategic issue with Huawei’s ownership and operation of that facility,” he added.

Recently, the Australian government announced that it was considering introducing a ban on the company’s 5G equipment due to security concerns.

However, Rita Saffioti, the Transport Minister for Western Australia, claimed the the Public Transport Authority (PTA) has numerously checked with the Federal Governmet for security risks.

The deal notes “a validation of the company’s status and reputation as the global cellular wireless leader” said John Lord, Chairman for Huawei Australia.

“We are modernising the Australian transportation sector,” Lord added.