Here’s the translation:
The global operator Arelion has announced an ambitious upgrade to its network in Scandinavia to drive the exponential growth of the artificial intelligence market in the region. With a strategic investment focused on connecting hyperscale data centers between Oslo, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, the company is reinforcing its critical infrastructure by adopting scalable 400G coherent optics and 1.6 Tb/s transmissions over Ciena’s open 6500 RLS (Reconfigurable Line System) platform.
This modernization turns Arelion’s network into a true high-capacity corridor for AI and cloud applications, positioning Scandinavia as one of the new European epicenters for advanced computing.
Cutting-edge technology for unstoppable demand
The upgrade leverages the latest advancements in open optical networks. Arelion has been a pioneer in adopting technologies such as Cisco’s 800G ZR+ coherent optics, achieving IP transmissions of 1,069 km between Stockholm and Hamburg. Additionally, in August 2024, it hit the global milestone of the first live transmission of a 1.6 Tb/s wave using Ciena’s Wavelogic 6 Extreme.
According to Virginie Hollebecque, Vice President of Ciena for EMEA, “this deployment enhances not only capacity and energy efficiency but also the resilience of a network that will be crucial for the rise of AI in the Nordic countries.”
Scandinavia, an emerging digital hub
Scandinavia’s appeal to the tech sector is based on three key factors: availability of land, sustainable energy, and more stable energy prices than other European regions. In Oslo alone, the installed data center capacity already reaches 423 MW, with an expected annual growth of between 280 and 580 MW across the Nordic region.
Projections for the AI market are also strong: it is estimated to reach a value of $19.9 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate of 26.24%. Arelion plans to complete this phase of network expansion by the end of the second quarter of 2025, with new investments scheduled throughout the rest of the year and into 2026.
A network prepared for the next generation of services
In addition to increasing bandwidth and route diversity, Arelion enhances its commercial offering with a comprehensive catalog of connectivity services: scalable IP Transit, Wavelengths, dedicated Internet access (DIA), Cloud Connect, global 40G Ethernet virtual circuits, and DDoS protection. All backed by the world’s number one global IP network, according to independent rankings.
The new infrastructure will also quickly connect to new clients, AI campuses, and next-generation data centers, thanks to the completion of cabling and ducting works that expand the existing conduit network.
A commitment to innovation and digital resilience
According to Johan Godal, product manager at Arelion, “this project is just the first step in a broader strategy aimed at maximizing our network assets in terms of capacity, scalability, and diversity. The goal is to accelerate the adoption of emerging applications through secure, high-performance connectivity.”
With this initiative, Arelion not only strengthens its position as a Tier-1 provider in Europe but also reinforces Scandinavia’s role as a strategic AI corridor, supported by modern, open infrastructure ready for the digital economy of the future.
About Arelion
Arelion is one of the leading global IP network operators, providing services in over 125 countries and connections to more than 700 providers of cloud, content, and security. Its clients include multinational companies that require robust digital infrastructure, low latency, and high availability for their critical operations.
About Ciena
Ciena is a global leader in high-speed connectivity. Its technology and solutions enable the construction of adaptive networks capable of supporting the exponential growth of data traffic. The company is at the forefront of network automation, coherent optics, and energy efficiency.
via: ciena