Space Norway contracts Ciena to modernize Svalbard cables and build Arctic Way subsea system
Space Norway awarded Ciena a turnkey contract to refurbish its existing Svalbard subsea cables and to install networking equipment for the new Arctic Way cable, which is slated to start service in 2028. Ciena will supply end‑to‑end design, deployment and optical gear, including its 6500 platform with WaveLogic 6 Extreme transponders and spectrum‑sharing capability, plus the Navigator Network Control Suite. The upgrade is intended to extend the life of the legacy network, cut operating costs and provide consistent performance across the Arctic footprint. Both companies said the project will boost resilient connectivity for research, scientific and security users in the region.
Why it matters
The contract gives Ciena exposure to a strategic Arctic infrastructure project, potentially expanding its market share in subsea networking. Space Norway expects lower operational expenses and more reliable data transport for its Arctic customers, which could increase demand for high‑capacity connectivity services.
Key facts
- 1Space Norway announced the contract on October 13, 2026. arctictoday.com
- 2Ciena will provide a complete design, deployment and optical equipment solution for the upgrade. arctictoday.com
- 3The Arctic Way subsea cable is planned to begin service in 2028 and will link the Norwegian mainland, Jan Mayen and Svalbard. arctictoday.com
- 4Ciena’s equipment includes its 6500 platform equipped with WaveLogic 6 Extreme transponders and spectrum‑sharing technology. hellenicshippingnews.com
- 5Ciena will also deliver the Navigator Network Control Suite to give Space Norway network visibility and redundancy. hellenicshippingnews.com
- 6Pia Birgitte Bruhn, Vice President of Cable Systems at Space Norway, said reliable connectivity is essential in the Arctic. arctictoday.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 2 of 2 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.