Alcatel Introduces the Next Generation of Microwave Radio: Alcatel MDR-8000.

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 22, 1998--Alcatel is launching a new generation of microwave radio at the PCS '98 (Personal Communications Showcase) in Orlando Sept. 22-25. Alcatel's MDR-8000 universal platform is capable of transmitting from 2 DS1's (2x1.544 Mb/s) up to OC-3 SONET (155 Mb/s) in the 2-11 GHz frequency bands and boasts an extraordinarily small size and flexible architecture. Where most of today's microwave technology accommodates up to 4 transceivers (T/Rs) in a standard 7-foot bay, the MDR-8000 paves the way by accommodating up to 10 T/Rs in the same bay.

"Alcatel's MDR-8000 series sets the standard for future microwave radio technology. Simply stated, size, cost and flexibility distinguish this radio," said Dave Kimzey, Vice President and General Manager, Fixed Wireless Networks Business Unit, Alcatel. "This universal platform leverages Alcatel's advanced digital and RF design technology to provide a very compact and economical solution for wireless providers."

The Alcatel MDR-8000 capitalizes on Alcatel's proven microwave expertise of designing highly complex RF wireless products. Addressing both asynchronous and SONET interfaces, this platform meets the diverse requirements of wireless providers, private networks, CLECs, and other operators who require wireless solutions in their network. Providing advanced features found across Alcatel's acclaimed family of digital microwave radios, its smaller size provides an ideal fit for customers with limited space. The Alcatel MDR-8000 complements the broad portfolio of the company's successful family of microwave radios.

"This newest product demonstrates Alcatel's ongoing commitment to meet the fast-growing demands of the fixed wireless market," said Krish Prabhu, Alcatel USA CEO. "Our 50 years experience in point-to-point microwave -- coupled with our number one worldwide position in wireless access -- once again confirms Alcatel's leadership role as a provider of telecommunications systems."

A world leader in telecommunications systems and equipment, as well as related cables and components activities, Alcatel operates in over 130 countries. Alcatel provides complete solutions and services to operators,

service providers, enterprises and consumers, ranging from backbone networks to user terminals. For more information, visit Alcatel on the Internet: http://www.alcatel.com or the U.S. web site at www.usa.alcatel.com. Contact for Alcatel Investor Relations (Paris): Charlotte LAURENT-OTTOMANE, (33.1) 40 76 13 30 or [e-mail] (Fax): (33.1) 40 76 14 05 -- UK media contact: Barrington Lloyd International, tel. [phone] or [e-mail].