Optical Cable's Ekinops Upgrades Caribbean Network for Enhanced Connectivity in Guadeloupe
- Ekinops upgrades the Global Caribbean Network's optical cable system, enhancing connectivity in underserved Guadeloupe regions.
- The upgrade features Ekinops' 400FRS04-SF module to support variable data rates from 10G to 100G.
- This partnership aims to improve digital access and ensure scalable, reliable optical infrastructure for high-speed internet.
Ekinops Enhances Caribbean Connectivity Through Strategic Upgrade
Ekinops, a specialist in optical transport and network access, announces a pivotal upgrade to the subsea cable network for Global Caribbean Network (GCN), a key provider of wholesale telecommunications capacity in the Caribbean. The upgrade, which occurs on June 16, 2025, focuses on modernizing the cable system that serves the Guadeloupe region, enhancing connectivity for areas that are typically underserved by existing infrastructure. GCN faces the challenge of delivering bandwidth across distances of up to 350 kilometers and has turned to Ekinops for a robust solution that accommodates variable data rates ranging from 10G to 100G.
To address these demands, GCN implements Ekinops' advanced 400FRS04-SF module, along with ROADMs and low-noise amplifiers. This technological enhancement positions GCN to provide high-bandwidth internet services to local telecom providers, significantly improving the digital landscape for residents and businesses in the region. The upgrade is part of GCN's broader initiative to modernize its infrastructure, which aligns with requirements set forth by a public service delegation contract with the Guadeloupe regional council. This contract mandates that control of the cable infrastructure will revert to the government after a specified duration, emphasizing the necessity for a future-proof network that can scale to meet increasing demands.
Axel Adenet, COO of GCN, highlights the importance of this collaboration with Ekinops, commending the company for effectively meeting their technical needs while fostering a cooperative environment to develop optimal solutions. Adenet underscores the significance of partnering with a French technology firm, particularly given the critical nature of the data flows involved in the region's telecommunications. This strategic partnership not only ensures the longevity and operational reliability of GCN’s cable system but also enhances regional connectivity, promising improved access to high-speed internet for underserved populations.
In addition to enhancing connectivity for the Guadeloupe region, this upgrade reflects a growing trend in the telecommunications industry where companies are pursuing advanced solutions to bridge digital divides in underserved areas. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, GCN and Ekinops are setting a benchmark for how collaborative efforts can result in more resilient and efficient infrastructure.
The partnership between GCN and Ekinops illustrates the critical role that optical transport technology plays in expanding digital access in remote areas. As the demand for high-speed internet continues to rise globally, initiatives like this serve as vital steps toward ensuring equitable access to digital resources for all regions, particularly those that have historically faced connectivity challenges.