Medusa Submarine Cable System: A Game-Changer for Mediterranean Connectivity

• 17 July 2023
• Construction Focus
• 1635 Views

In a monumental stride towards transforming connectivity in the Mediterranean, Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), Elettra, Medusa, and Orange have officially broken ground on the Medusa Submarine Cable System. Spanning over 8,700 kilometers, this visionary project is set to become the region’s longest cable, facilitating essential connections between ten countries, including Morocco, Portugal, Spain, France, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt. The Medusa system is poised to revolutionize North-South and East-West connectivity, paving the way for unprecedented collaboration, innovation, and economic growth.

Harnessing cutting-edge 24-pair fiber optic open cable technology, the Medusa Submarine Cable System has been engineered to meet the soaring demand for high-speed broadband connectivity throughout the Mediterranean. Each fiber pair offers a remarkable minimum capacity of 20Tbps, ensuring seamless and lightning-fast internet transmission. ASN, in collaboration with marine construction project specialists Elettra, is leading the construction efforts, which have already commenced with comprehensive survey operations. The subsequent phases, including equipment manufacturing and installation, are scheduled to unfold between 2024 and 2025, setting the stage for a transformative digital infrastructure.

Notably, Orange, a key partner in this landmark project, will play a pivotal role by providing vital landing infrastructures in France, Tunisia, and Morocco. These strategic locations will serve as essential gateways for seamless connectivity, empowering businesses, communities, and individuals across the Mediterranean region.

Norman Albi, CEO of Medusa, expressed his profound gratitude to the collaborative efforts of partners and European institutions that have supported the project since its inception. Acknowledging the instrumental contributions of North African Operators, financial institutions, and industry leaders such as ASN, Elettra Tlc, Orange, and AFR-IX Telecom, Albi emphasized the shared vision of creating a digital landscape that fosters inclusivity and unlocks vast opportunities.

The Medusa Submarine Cable System is poised to reshape the region’s telecommunications infrastructure and bridge the digital divide that currently exists. With a firm commitment to delivering enhanced connectivity, this visionary initiative aspires to connect North Africa, Southern Europe, and key Mediterranean islands, including Sicily, Crete, and Cyprus. By seamlessly linking these regions, the Medusa system will ignite unparalleled collaboration, foster innovation, and catalyze robust economic growth.

Paul Gabla, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer of ASN, underscored the transformative impact of the Medusa submarine cable system on the Mediterranean’s digital landscape. Gabla affirmed ASN’s privilege in spearheading this ambitious endeavor, which will empower businesses, communities, and individuals with limitless opportunities for growth and development. The Medusa Submarine Cable System promises to redefine connectivity across the Mediterranean, enabling a future where seamless communication knows no bounds.

• Energy and Environment