Japan Communications Co., Ltd. (TSE Prime: 9424; hereinafter referred to as "JCI") is pleased to announce that it has selected BroadForward (Headquarters: Netherlands; CEO: Taco Schoute), a global leader in intelligent signaling software. JCI is committed to developing the best core network to power the future of its Neo-Carrier strategy.
As announced on February 14, 2024, JCI is set to launch services as a "Neo-Carrier" on May 24, 2026, to be realized by connecting voice, SMS, and data communication networks to MNOs. Currently, in addition to connecting to emergency call networks, we have begun developing our core system, which connects our network functions (such as HSS*1, IMS*2, and SMSC*3) with the equipment of voice and SMS interconnection operators.
*1 HSS: Home Subscriber Server *2 IMS: IP Multimedia Subsystem *3 SMSC: short message service center
To develop this new telecommunication infrastructure in the best possible way, we believe that we should not rely on a single vendor. Instead, we aim to combine the best solutions for each function. By following this approach, we will develop a new telecommunication infrastructure that offers advanced features and high cost efficiency while keeping the total investment cost to just a fraction of the conventional amount. Based on this policy, we have completed the selection of vendors from six countries, 21 companies. One of these selected companies is BroadForward.
In the telecommunications industry, although global technical standards exist, there are still small technical differences—similar to "dialects" in specifications and compatibility. As a result, high-level adjustments are required to ensure proper connectivity between network components.
BroadForward's solution supports multiple protocols and network functions on a flexible platform, enabling simplified network operations and improved scalability. By implementing BroadForward's Diameter Routing Platform (DRA/DEA), Gateway Mobile Location Center (GMLC), and Signaling Transfer Point (STP), as a "Neo-Carrier," JCI will establish a simpler and more stable communication environment while enhancing its readiness for 5G and next-generation networks.
Executive Comments
Taco Schoute, CEO of BroadForward, commented:
"We are excited to support JCI in advancing its network services. JCI has long been a pioneer in the Japanese telecommunications industry, and we are thrilled to collaborate on this transformative journey."
Naohisa Fukuda, Representative Director-President of JCI, added:
"JCI is leveraging the world's most advanced technologies from various vendors to develop the best core network as a 'Neo-Carrier.' The introduction of BroadForward's signaling solution will significantly enhance the flexibility and scalability of our network."
About BroadForward
BroadForward is leader in intelligent signaling software for 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile networks. The Portfolio consists of core network products for routing, interworking, security, and number portability, designed for convergence across legacy and next-generation networks. BroadForward is a nine-time GSMA GLOMO technology award nominee and GSMA winner of Best Mobile & Network Software Breakthrough with its converged signaling solution, providing service providers an efficient and cost-effective network transition to 5G. BroadForward's products include the DRA, STP, EIR, Firewall, Location, Security Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP), Service Communication Proxy (SCP) and 4G-5G interworking. All products are hardware-agnostic and support network virtualization, containerization and cloud deployment.
For more information, visit: www.broadforward.com
About Japan Communications Inc. (JCI)
Japan Communications Inc., founded in 1996, is a pioneer that has brought innovation to the telecommunications industry and played a leading role in shaping the MVNO market. Focused on simple and rational mobile communication services, JCI has established a stable revenue model while striving for continued growth. With its strengths in patented technologies such as the wireless leased line "Closed SIM-to-SIM Communication" and the digital authentication technology "FPoS," JCI focuses on providing both mobile communication services and an advanced digital authentication infrastructure built around authentication technology. Its PCI DSS-certified private mobile line is trusted by high-security sectors, including law enforcement and banking, while FPoS offers an industry-leading combination of world-class security and user convenience. Guided by its mission to "Secure and Reliable Transportation of Bits," JCI is committed to building a secure, borderless mobile infrastructure and driving sustainable growth and corporate value enhancement.
For more information, visit: www.j-com.co.jp
*All company names and product names used in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks.
