Fiber-optic cable, equipment, and accessories manufacturer AFL says it will enter the market in India via a partnership with Bangalore-based startup Citadel Intelligent Systems Pvt. Ltd. (CIS). According to AFL, its partnership with CIS will deliver customized fiber-optic technology for hyperscale and data center markets and harsh environments, and will bring to India fiber cable designs that meet increasing requirements for managing high fiber count needs in data centers.
AFL and CIS have established a manufacturing facility in Bangalore at Doddanekundi Industrial Area, Hood. The 20,000-square-foot facility includes innovative manufacturing equipment, and the support of a skilled workforce.
"India has evolved as a digitally advanced market. The rising demand for high-speed broadband, increased investment in information technology and telecommunications, accelerated by government-led 'Make in India,' 'Smart Cities,' and 'Digital India' initiatives, are scaling up exponential growth for the optical fiber solutions in the country," said Jody Gallagher, AFL president and CEO. "Globally, AFL has led the way with innovative products that deliver cutting-edge solutions for its customers. We believe that our partnership with CIS will open new avenues for us, help in tapping new customer segments and remain competitive in the business."
CIS, led by CEO and Managing Director KK Shetty, manufactures customized fiber-optic interconnectivity technology for enterprise and telecom networks, smart cities, security, and surveillance systems. and harsh environments. CIS will lend manufacturing, sales, and marketing support to the partnership, while AFL says it will provide "knowledge engineering" as well as product, application, and engineering support.
"AFL's optical assembly capabilities are recognized for innovation and high performance," Gallagher added. "Above all, India has the right talent pool and by manufacturing in India we will be able to provide customization and 'quick-turn manufacturing' to support the specific requirements of our customers."
AFL says it expects the partnership to double its workforce in India by March 2018.
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