Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), Elettra Tlc, Medusa, and Orange have announced the commencement of the construction contract for the Medusa Submarine Cable System. This cable project aims to enhance connectivity across the Mediterranean by establishing crucial connections between multiple countries.
Medusa submarine cable system
Medusa, spanning over 8,700 kilometres, is set to become the longest cable in the Mediterranean Sea, providing enhanced North-South and East-West connectivity. The Medusa Submarine Cable System will connect Morocco, Portugal, Spain, France, Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt, creating unprecedented opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and economic development.
Also Read: Orange Tunisia and Medusa to Develop Longest Subsea Cable System in the Mediterranean
As already announced by Orange, the subsystem named via Tunisia, part of the Medusa Cable linking France and Tunisia, is co-funded by the European Union under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) program.
According to the statement, the construction contract has been awarded to ASN and Elettra, known for their expertise in telecommunications infrastructure. The Medusa system will utilize 24-pair fibre optic Open Cable technology, ensuring it meets the increasing broadband requirements in the region with a minimum capacity of 20 Tbps per fibre pair.
Elettra Tlc will start conducting surveys soon, with equipment manufacturing and installation scheduled to occur between 2024 and 2025. Orange will supply landing infrastructures in France, Tunisia, and Morocco.
Bridging the Digital Divide
The Medusa submarine cable system intends to connect North Africa, Southern Europe, and several Mediterranean islands, including Sicily, Crete, and Cyprus, with the mainland to promote economic development and bridge the digital gap. This cable system will act as a vital link between the Mediterranean and Atlantic regions, promoting better communication and cooperation within these areas.
Elettra expressed excitement to be in charge of the marine works for the first phase of the Medusa project. Elettra Tlc, with its extensive experience in cable installations and repairs in the Mediterranean Sea, is thrilled to contribute to the construction of this vital telecommunications backbone.
Operational by Q4 2025
Orange will welcome Medusa into its carrier-neutral infrastructures in Marseille, fostering digital exchanges between Europe and North Africa.
The Medusa submarine cable system is a collaborative effort that aims to revolutionize connectivity in the Mediterranean region, promoting collaboration, economic growth, and bridging the digital divide. The system is expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.
