Ericsson signs $1.7 bln contracts with Chinese operators

* Signs deals with China Mobile, China Unicom

* Will provide second and third generation equipment

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STOCKHOLM, July 8 (Reuters) - Telecom equipment maker Ericsson (ERICb.ST) said on Wednesday it has signed deals worth 1.7 billion dollars to provide Chinese operators with second and third generation telecoms equipment and services.

The world's top mobile network maker said in a statement it had inked contracts with China Mobile (0941.HK) and China Unicom (0762.HK) worth $1 billion and $700 million, respectively.

Under the deal with China Mobile, Ericsson will expand GSM/GPRS network coverage and capacity in 18 provinces in China. It will also support China Mobile's 3G network by providing a wider range of TD-SCDMA products and solutions.

Ericsson said it would also become the main supplier to upgrade China Unicom's GSM networks in 10 provinces. It will provide a GSM/WCDMA core network and or a wireless access system in 15 provinces. (Editing by Jon Loades-Carter)