Nokia Powers Medusa Submarine Cable to Link Europe and North Africa with High-Capacity Digital Connectivity

Nokia Powers Medusa Submarine Cable to Link Europe and North Africa with High-Capacity Digital Connectivity

(IN BRIEF) Nokia has been chosen to provide the technology for the Medusa Submarine Cable System, a next-generation open-access fiber-optic network developed by AFR-IX Telecom that connects North Africa and Europe. The system, which spans the Atlantic, Mediterranean, and Red Seas, aims to deliver faster, more reliable connectivity for millions across countries like Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya. Powered by Nokia’s 1830 GX platform and ICE7 optics, Medusa will offer industry-leading transmission capacity, supporting 5G, cloud, and AI-based services. The system will serve as a vital digital bridge, enabling inclusive innovation and economic growth across two continents.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 28-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Nokia has been selected to power the Medusa Submarine Cable System, a new high-capacity open-access fiber-optic network developed by AFR-IX Telecom that will link North Africa and Europe through a transformative subsea infrastructure. This advanced digital corridor will span the Atlantic coast, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Red Sea, significantly enhancing regional and intercontinental connectivity.

Designed to bridge the digital divide between Europe and countries such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, and Egypt, the Medusa system offers unprecedented transmission capacity and scalability. It aims to support the accelerated deployment of 5G, enable the expansion of cloud services, and meet the surging bandwidth demands driven by artificial intelligence and next-generation digital applications.

The network will be powered by Nokia’s 1830 Global Express (GX) Series platform and cutting-edge ICE7 coherent optics. These technologies provide industry-leading performance and reach, delivering tens of terabits per second per fiber pair with low latency and exceptional power efficiency. The solution positions Medusa as one of the most technologically advanced subsea cable systems in operation, delivering faster, more reliable, and more cost-effective digital services across continents.

As an open-access infrastructure, the Medusa network provides telecommunications providers across the region with direct access to world-class connectivity services. The system is expected to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and promoting digital inclusion in both North Africa and southern Europe.

Miguel Angel Acero, CTO and Founder of Medusa, emphasized the system’s future-readiness:
“Medusa is laying the groundwork for a more connected and inclusive digital future. With Nokia’s subsea optical solution, we’re able to provide faster and more reliable connectivity at lower costs, while retaining the flexibility to scale. This partnership ensures we meet the needs of today while building the infrastructure of tomorrow.”

John Harrington, Senior Vice President and Head of Sales for Network Infrastructure in Europe, MEA & APAC at Nokia, stated:
“Medusa is delivering new levels of connectivity to millions, unlocking innovation and supporting deeper integration into the global digital economy. We’re proud to support this transformative project that not only bridges continents but also powers the future of AI-driven networks and services.”

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SOURCE: Nokia