A deal was announced Friday that will lead to a wireless broadband network that will serve much of Canada in less than three years.

Rogers Communications and Bell Canada announced the formation of Inukshuk Internet, a joint venture that will build and operate "one of the most robust and extensive wireless broadband networks in the world."

Under the plan, Inukshuk will provide the network services for both Rogers and Bell Canada while operating on a cost-recovery basis.

Pooling their resources, the two companies said in a statement, will allow them to both cut costs and expand broadband coverage to two-thirds of Canada at the same time.

The project will cost about $200 million over three years and will bring wireless broadband to more than 40 cities as well as underserved rural regions.

Copyright 2005 by United Press International