Representatives from Alcatel Submarine Network (ASN) and EGS (Asia) Ltd have arrived in Antigua and Barbuda as the Caribbean country is set to play an important role in the Caribbean Elite Alliance (CELIA) submarine cable system that is expected to be fully operational by 2027.

The regional initiative is aimed at strengthening digital connectivity across the Caribbean and the officials are conducting a marine survey that focuses on the portion of the CELIA cable system that will pass through the country’s territorial waters, connecting Antigua and several neighbouring islands to Boca Raton in Florida.

The new cable using the latest submarine fiber optic technologies will span over 3700 km and link key points in the Caribbean and North America, featuring a minimum of 8 fiber pairs, offering a minimum of 22 Terabits per second per fiber pair, and providing an initial estimated capacity of more than 170 Tbps.

“The purpose of the marine survey is to map the ocean floor and identify the most secure and efficient route for laying the submarine cable. The data collected will guide the cable’s design, installation, and long-term maintenance. All survey work is being carried out in accordance with international and industry best practices,” according to a press release issued by the CELIA team.

It said that the CELIA system is being developed as a high-speed, high-capacity fiber optic network that will significantly improve digital connectivity across the region.

“It will also support our digital economy, help bridge the digital divide and strengthen our position in the growing global information economy.”

APUA is a key partner in this initiative, working alongside the Aruba-based Setar as well as the US-based Telxius and the France-based Orange.

“The consortium is also committed to collaborating with local NGOs and authorities to protect the environment and promote the well-being of communities throughout the project,” the statement added.