GBI uses Xtera 100G systems for Mediterranean undersea cable link, backhaul

Gulf Bridge International (GBI), which is building an undersea cable system to provide connectivity to the Middle East (see "GBI undersea cable system ready for service"), and Xtera have provided further details of a 100-Gbps technology deployment across the Mediterranean that was first announced last May (see “GBI, Xtera claim first repeatered 100-Gbps cable system”). The deployment saw 100-Gbps Nu-Wave Optima platforms from Xtera in its Zafarana cable landing station in Egypt on the Red Sea and its Milan point-of-presence (PoP).

GBI used both submarine and terrestrial line terminal equipment configurations of the Nu-Wave Optima in its deployment, which connects Abu Talat, Egypt, to Mazara del Vallo, Italy. The segment has been in service since the first quarter of 2012.

It is the first commercial repeatered submarine cable system with 100G technology, the two parties say.

The links feature both working and protect routes. The 4,900-km Italy backhaul network was deployed on a mix of fiber types and characteristics. The backhaul networks in both countries are believed to be the first commercial systems in the world with installed design capacity of 90 x 100G. The backhaul systems feature colorless and directionless reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexer (ROADM) capabilities.

"We are pleased to be working with Xtera to achieve this landmark 100G deployment in the Mediterranean," commented Ahmed Mekky, board Member and CEO of GBI. "Today's announcement reflects our ongoing commitment to be the region's most advanced subsea cable operator and to ensure that our customers benefit from the latest technological advancements."

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