Vodafone Ukraine builds Black Sea cable bypassing Russia

Vodafone Ukraine builds Black Sea cable bypassing Russia is profiled by BTW Media because published evidence links it to internet infrastructure, governance, operational dependencies, or market visibility.

• Vodafone Ukraine and Vodafone Group announce the Kardesa submarine cable system project.
• The project will connect Bulgaria, Turkey, Georgia, and Ukraine, enhancing internet capacity and resilience.

What happened: Vodafone Ukraine to build Kardesa submarine cable system

Vodafone Ukraine, in collaboration with Vodafone Group, has unveiled plans to build the Kardesa submarine cable system across the Black Sea. The cable will span multiple countries, including Bulgaria, Turkey, Georgia, and Ukraine, with the first landing point expected in Bulgaria by 2027. The system, expected to cost over €100 million ($116.5 million), will deliver over 500 terabits per second of internet capacity.

The project will be managed by British cable company Xtera and is set to bypass Russian-controlled routes, providing a secure alternative for European and Asian internet traffic. Ukrainian officials highlighted the importance of the project for Ukraine’s digital sovereignty, noting its role in strengthening the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.

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Why it’s important

The Kardesa system is seen as a key strategic project for Ukraine, enhancing its digital independence. It will position the country as a crucial hub for internet traffic between Europe and Asia, bypassing Russian routes that have previously been the primary connection point. This move is expected to foster investment in Ukraine’s telecommunications sector and provide faster, more secure internet access for the country’s citizens.

Mykhailo Fedorov, First Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, emphasised that the project would bolster Ukraine’s resilience and attract foreign investment. As part of Vodafone’s broader global strategy, the project mirrors similar initiatives, such as the Beaufort cable system, a repeaterless submarine cable between Ireland and the UK, jointly developed with Amazon Web Services (AWS).