Subsea Networks were engaged to get the system over the line , to make the vendor selection recommendations and to support the drafting and negotiation of the supply contract . This resulted in a twoyear engagement to project manage the successful installation and system turn up .
“ It is easy to underestimate the challenges a system like this can create ,” Thomas said . “ We were working in the North Sea , which as you know , has many constraints in terms of terrain , weather and cable crossings . Lockdown in the UK came a month after we signed the supply contract , which obviously created issues for everyone in the industry to some extent . The market was exceptionally busy , with vessel availability stretched and cable manufacturing slots sparse .”
Another challenge the team faced was permitting the project in time to allow marine operations within the available weather windows . “ In order to obtain the permits in principle , crossing agreements and the operational permits in time to meet the programme , the teams at Subsea Networks , Xtera , NO-UK and Altibox Carrier ( the system operator ) had to remain very focused . The experience of the experts involved played a key part in the NO-UK success story ”.
“ An active dynamic management style was needed for this project , and everybody played their part ,” Thomas said . She noted that one of the interesting aspects of the project was that during the commissioning period , Ciena , the lighting vendor selected by Altibox Carrier , performed trials which concluded that NO-UK is the only submarine cable system in the world that has been able to carry an 800Gbit / s channel to date . This is in part due to Xtera ’ s wide bandwidth and low noise repeater , and is a terrific achievement for the teams at Xtera and Ciena and a great result for the customer .” Thomas said . “ Furthermore , using software automation that forms part of Ciena ’ s GeoMesh Extreme
“ You really need to have a good idea what all the suppliers are capable of and what technology is available , but also what it will take to get a concept or project over the line ”
LYNSEY THOMAS DIRECTOR , SUBSEA NETWORKS
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