Alvarion is working to bolster its position as a supplier for the WiMAX sector. The company acquired Interwave Communications last year to add mobile capabilities to its quiver and most recently announced that Lucent Technologies will integrate Alvarion's technology into its converged network platform. Wireless Review talked to CEO Zvi Slonimsky at last month's WCA International Symposium about technology evolution, deals and gorillas.

On priorities for broadband wireless development: There are only three things you need to look at with any technology: The first is cost. The second is cost. The third, and most important, is cost.

On the Lucent deal: The main thing for us is to have a presence in the U.S. and prepare ourselves for mobile WiMAX. WiMAX mobility will be the game plan for both fixed and mobile operators. Our target is to be a player in WiMAX mobility.

On what the acquisition brought: We need to have a deep understanding of the total network to design our network effectively. You can't deliver a system if you can't connect to the total environment. It also brought mobile customers. Not first tier, but they're still helpful — you need the credentials. Finally, it brought technology that complements ours in the fixed arena.

On Alvarion's position: We're not looking to compete with the giants, but we are a market leader. We are a 1 milligram gorilla, but we are a leader in our market.