"MegaFon" innovations are also closely aligned with the implementation of major infrastructure projects. In autumn 2009, we completed the construction of the "European Grand Circle" of fiberoptic communication lines (FOCL), which brought together into one network multiple сities from the five federal districts of Russia, from Murmansk to Makhachkala. The total length of the "MegaFon" FOCL reached 22,030 km in 2009, and by the end of 2010 this parameter was further increased.
"MegaFon” also continues to constantly grow its own DATA centers that process massive volumes of data. The Volga region DATA-center is now open and it is not only the largest center in the company's network, but in all of Russia.
The presence of "MegaFon" cellular networks across all Russian regions imposes a special responsibility on us. Today, mobile is a key strategic tool of communication. In 2010, our company created Russia's first mobile Situation Center to ensure uninterrupted communications in all types of emergencies. “MegaFon” and the FGC signed cooperation agreements for the Situation Centers that launched the exchange of operational and planning information for addressing issues of prevention and the mitigation of accidents and emergencies. By implementing these types of new projects, we make a significant contribution to the transition of our economy in an innovative way.