Alcatel-Lucent, LITC to Build Undersea Cable Between Tripoli and Benghazi, Libya

Alcatel-Lucent has signed a turnkey contract with the Libyan International Telecommunication Company (LITC) to build a new 1,000 km undersea cable system linking the country’s capital, Tripoli, to Benghazi, and providing the broadband connectivity needed in support of ongoing efforts to revive the Libyan economy.

The system will play a critical role in the reconstruction Libya’s telecom infrastructure improving the levels of connectivity and communication reliability needed for business, public sector and consumer applications, particularly at a time when global demand for broadband services continues to grow. Based on Alcatel-Lucent‘s 100G technology and a cable optimized with coherent submarine fiber, the system will ultimately carry capacity in excess of 10Tbit/s per fiber pair and is expected to be ready for completion mid of 2015

Dr Mohmoud Aujali, Chairman of LITC said: “Broadband connectivity is a major growth opportunity for the foreseeable future and the development of a robust telecommunication infrastructure is vital. With the help of Alcatel-Lucent, our new submarine cable system promises a significant contribution the overall developments that are being undertaken to improve standard of living for Libyans.”

Philippe Dumont, President of Alcatel-Lucent Submarine Networks, said: “We are pleased to support LITC in delivering this major network transformation in support of the country’s efforts in reconstructing its telecom infrastructure. Strengthening connection with the global digital community, Alcatel-Lucent’s innovative solution will help LITC promote growth opportunities for economic, cultural and educational activities.”

Press Release, February 04, 2014; Image: Alcatel-Lucent