Sparkle and Turkcell have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a new subsea cable solution connecting Izmir, Türkiye, to Milan, Italy. Announced during MWC 2025 in Barcelona, the collaboration aims to enhance international internet traffic in the Mediterranean region by leveraging Sparkle’s BlueMed Cable System. The 4,000 km (2,485 mi) diversified route will offer an alternative digital corridor with increased capacity and geographical redundancy.
The subsea cable, linking Izmir and Chania, Greece, will support more than 25 Tbps per fiber pair, providing a high-performance, low-latency path between Türkiye and Europe. This infrastructure is designed to strengthen the resilience of global data networks by reducing dependence on traditional routes. The project will offer a robust connectivity solution for hyperscalers and content providers seeking secure, high-capacity internet services between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
This initiative aligns with Sparkle’s GreenMed project, which promotes sustainable digital acceleration across the Mediterranean. Turkcell expects the cable to become operational within a few years, reinforcing the stability of international communications and supporting the region’s growing demand for seamless, high-speed internet connectivity.
• Sparkle and Turkcell to develop a new subsea cable connecting Izmir to Milan.
• 4,000 km (2,485 mi) route enhances connectivity and geographical redundancy.
• Cable to deliver over 25 Tbps per fiber pair, ensuring high-capacity transmission.
• Integration with Sparkle’s BlueMed Cable System expands reach across Europe.
• Supports hyperscalers and content providers with a reliable East-West link.
Dr. Ali Taha Koç, CEO of Turkcell, said, “This subsea cable solution, with its impressive capacity between Izmir and Chania and a total distance of 4,000 km, offers a promising alternative route to the existing ones, enhancing geographical redundancy and ensuring that the international data connection remains uninterrupted even in the event of disruptions along traditional paths.”
