ASRC Communications and Gulf Fiber join forces to build fiber-optic network in the Gulf of Mexico
March 10, 2004 Houston, TX -- Arctic Slope Regional Corp.'s wholly owned subsidiary, ASRC Communications Ltd., an information technology and project management firm, has joined with Gulf Fiber LLC to construct, operate, and manage a secure, reliable subsea telecommunications fiber-optic cable network in the Gulf of Mexico. The project, dubbed Gulf FiberNet, will be used to enhance remote operations and provide comprehensive video, voice, and data services to the oil and gas industry and various branches of the U.S. government.
Gulf FiberNet is designed to meet the market-driven demand for expandable and reliable communications on the continental shelf as well as in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico (GoM). The fiber network offers the potential for improved reliability, particularly as part of broader remote communications solutions involving microwave and fixed satellite (VSAT) technologies. A repeaterless network, Gulf FiberNet is designed to deliver a higher level of availability.
"ASRC recognizes the opportunity to change the way offshore industry communicates by providing new infrastructure for remote operations to the offshore industry," reports Andrew Gallegos, executive vice president, ASRC Communications. "By joining with Gulf Fiber, we realized greater market coverage, expanded customer demand, and capitalized on both companies' experience and expertise in the Subsea and Offshore industries."
"We're excited about moving forward with ASRC on this project, as they bring a wealth of technology to the table in the area of communications and network development, as well as a corporate structure and financial stability that will ensure the success of the new venture," contends Kevin Peterson, director of Gulf Fiber LLC. "We're very pleased that ASRC shares our vision for the future of the offshore communications market and are certain that together we'll create a service that will significantly change the way business is conducted in the offshore environment," he adds.
ASRC and Gulf Fiber have formed an experienced team to ensure Gulf FiberNet's success. According to the companies, the relationship demonstrates a commitment to Gulf FiberNet and the continued evolution of technology in the Gulf of Mexico. As previously announced, Gulf Fiber was awarded a contract to provide fiber-optic services to specific BP deepwater platforms.