The Trans-Caspian Fiber-Optic Cable project, set to establish the first fiber-optic connection between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, has reached a new milestone in its construction phase, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
The project owners, AzerTelecom and Kazakhtelecom, announced the successful completion of the Desktop Study, a comprehensive pre-engineering analysis of the marine environment and potential cable route, marking a strong and promising start to the upcoming submarine installation works.
According to Yusif Jabbarov, Chairman of NEQSOL Holding, owner of Azerbaijan’s leading backbone internet provider, AzerTelecom, the Trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable project not only strengthens digital connectivity and technological advancement across the region but also contributes to regional economic cooperation. “To achieve this, we are implementing cutting-edge, internationally recognized solutions to usher in a new era of faster, more reliable, and high-quality connectivity between Asia and Europe.”
The final report from the Desktop Study includes detailed analysis of marine charts, seabed conditions, environmental factors, and potential route hazards. It also provides the foundational data required for the next stages of the project, including the marine survey and cable route engineering.
“The next step is the marine route survey, and I’m pleased to note that all activities are progressing in accordance with the schedule. On the Kazakhtelecom side, we’ve formed a dedicated implementation team focused solely on this project, which is unique in its scope and scale,” said Nurlan Meirmanov, Chief Strategy and External Assets Officer of Kazakhtelecom.
Technical supervision and advisory support for the project are being provided by U.S.-based Pioneer Consulting, ensuring that all milestones and deliverables align with industry best practices and global standards. As part of its role, Pioneer Consulting contributed to the Desktop Study by reviewing critical design elements and providing expert recommendations, supporting the report’s acceptance by AzerTelecom and Kazakhtelecom.
Dave Marie, Project Manager and Director of Client Solutions at Pioneer Consulting and Project Manager for the Trans-Caspian System, stated, “Since January 2024, our team has been supporting the design and procurement of the Trans-Caspian submarine cable system. We are honored to be collaborating with AzerTelecom and Kazakhtelecom in delivering this unique, much-needed high-speed and reliable fibre optic system to the region.”
This milestone confirms that the proposed fiber-optic route meets international engineering standards and adheres to stringent safety and quality benchmarks.
The Trans-Caspian Fiber-optic Cable Line features a 380-km fiber-optic line across the Caspian Sea, connecting Sumgait (Azerbaijan) and Aktau (Kazakhstan). With a data transmission capacity of up to 400 terabits per second, the cable will form a high-speed, low-latency regional connectivity corridor.
