This paper describes the Nokia 9500 Microwave Packet Radio (MPR) implementation of ITU-T G.8032v2 and other related Nokia 9500 MPR features that together enable a new era of microwave networks that meet the demands of traditional TDM services, and are optimized for the delivery of traditional and new IP services over a common network. A case study highlighting the financial advantages of moving to packet microwave ring topologies is also provided.