What is the fiber optic cable used for telecommunications in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is working to connect to a trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable linking Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, creating an alternative international internet route with multi-billion-dollar potential.Project OverviewUzbekistan is planning to link its digital infrastructure to a fiber-optic cable running along the Caspian Sea seabed from Kazakhstan to Azerbaijan, part of the broader Trans-Caspian Fiber Optic Cable project . This connection aims to diversify Uzbekistan's internet routes, reducing reliance on Russian-controlled networks and enhancing secure, high-speed international communications . The project is considered strategically and economically important, supporting Uzbekistan's digital modernization and integration into the Middle Corridor trade network backed by the US and EU .Technical DetailsThe trans-Caspian cable spans approximately 380 km between Sumgayit (Azerbaijan) and Aktau (Kazakhstan), with a planned capacity of up to 400 Tbit/s, enabling high-volume data transmission . Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 . Uzbekistan is engaging the Saudi-based company DataVolt to facilitate its connection to this international communications line, with potential partnerships involving major tech firms like Oracle and Amazon to expand the digital economy .Strategic and Economic SignificanceConnecting to this fiber-optic line will provide Uzbekistan with:Alternative internet routes, reducing dependence on Russian-controlled traffic .Enhanced digital security and resilience against network disruptions .Economic benefits, potentially generating multi-billion-dollar gains through improved connectivity and digital trade .Integration into regional digital corridors, supporting the Digital Silk Way project that links multiple countries including Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan .Domestic Fiber-Optic DevelopmentUzbekistan is also strengthening its domestic fiber-optic capabilities. The Global Optical Communication Uzbekistan (GOC-UZ) joint venture, in collaboration with South Korean companies and Uzbektelecom, produces over 50,000 km of fiber-optic cables annually . This domestic production supports both internal network expansion and regional connectivity projects.ConclusionUzbekistan's connection to the trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable represents a major step in modernizing its digital infrastructure, enhancing internet security, and integrating into international data networks. The project is expected to boost economic growth, support regional trade, and provide high-capacity, low-latency connectivity for both public and private sectors .