UGARIT 2

Overview

Ugarit 2 is a submarine telecommunications cable connecting Cyprus and Syria. This cable plays a critical role in facilitating digital communication between the two countries, enhancing connectivity in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Submarine cables like Ugarit 2 are essential infrastructure for modern global communication, enabling high-speed data transmission across vast distances. By linking Pentaskhinos in Cyprus with Tartous in Syria, Ugarit 2 provides a direct route for data exchange, supporting internet services, voice communication, and other digital applications.

Submarine cables are designed to endure harsh underwater conditions, ensuring reliable service over long periods. Ugarit 2 is likely to be engineered with advanced materials and technology to withstand the pressures and environmental challenges of the Mediterranean Sea. Its strategic placement between Cyprus and Syria underscores the importance of regional connectivity for economic, social, and technological development.

Route and landings

The Ugarit 2 cable spans the Mediterranean Sea, connecting Pentaskhinos on the southern coast of Cyprus to Tartous on the western coast of Syria. The Mediterranean Sea, known for its historical significance and dense maritime traffic, presents unique challenges and opportunities for submarine cable deployment. The route between Cyprus and Syria is relatively short compared to transoceanic cables, which helps minimize latency and ensures efficient data transfer.

Pentaskhinos, located in Cyprus, serves as a critical landing point for Ugarit 2. Cyprus is a key hub for submarine cables due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Tartous, on the Syrian coast, is the other landing point. This port city is an important gateway for communication infrastructure in Syria, contributing to improved connectivity for local communities and businesses. The cable’s route reflects the need for direct and reliable links between these two nations.

Ownership and history

Details about the ownership and history of Ugarit 2 are limited. However, cables such as Ugarit 2 are typically developed by consortia of telecommunications companies or government entities aiming to improve regional connectivity. The name "Ugarit" suggests a historical reference to the ancient city of Ugarit, located in modern-day Syria, which was a center of trade and communication in antiquity. This naming may highlight the cultural and historical ties between the regions served by the cable.

Submarine cables require significant investment in planning, construction, and maintenance. The deployment of Ugarit 2 likely involved extensive collaboration between Cyprus and Syria, reflecting shared interests in advancing digital infrastructure. While specific timelines and milestones for Ugarit 2 are not available, its operational status indicates successful completion of these efforts. The cable contributes to the broader network of undersea cables that form the backbone of global communication.

What our measurements show

Our monitoring of Ugarit 2 reveals consistent performance in its measured corridor. The best round-trip time (RTT) recorded is 6 milliseconds, with an average RTT also at 6 milliseconds. These figures indicate low latency, which is particularly advantageous for applications requiring real-time data exchange, such as video conferencing and online gaming. The short physical distance between Cyprus and Syria contributes to these favorable latency measurements.

Reliable and low-latency connections are essential for fostering economic and social ties between nations. Ugarit 2’s performance underscores its role as a vital link in the region’s telecommunications network. Our probes confirm that the cable is functioning effectively, supporting seamless communication between its landing points. This stability is crucial for maintaining uninterrupted services for the communities and businesses that depend on it.