Russia Switches to Domestically Produced Fiber-Optic Cables

A major Russian telecom integrator has ditched imported fiber optics in favor of homegrown alternatives that match Japanese products in quality and performance.

Russian IT integrator Telecom Exchange has fully transitioned to using domestically manufactured fiber-optic cables. Previously reliant on Japanese suppliers, the company shifted to Russian alternatives late last year and has since used them exclusively in all new projects.

So far, more than 200 kilometers of optical networks have been laid using the local cable. The Russian-made fiber boasts a signal attenuation rate of 0.18 dB/km and a core capacity ranging from 144 to 576 fibers. These metrics ensure stable network operation and high data throughput.

One of the key drivers behind the switch was logistics. Japanese cables took more than 90 calendar days to arrive—an unacceptable delay for fast-moving telecom deployments. In contrast, the domestic product offers quicker availability without sacrificing performance.

Telecom Exchange is currently expanding its network in Moscow, with a particular focus on infrastructure resiliency and security. The company is designing its architecture to minimize the risk of simultaneous outages from accidents or construction-related disruptions.