FIBER SPOOLS

Applying proprietary techniques originally developed to enable deployment of long tethers in space, TUI has developed a technology to enable high-speed deployment of optical fibers underwater. This "Underwater Optical Tether Deployer" (UOTD) is a precision-wound optical fiber pack designed for use in submarine-launched buoys to provide a capability for two-way, high-bandwidth communications for submarines even when they are submerged and moving at high speeds. This optical communications link will provide a revolutionary capability for Navy submarines to participate in full networked warfare operations. TUI's UOTD is produced using a fully-automated, high-precision process that achieves low pack attenuation and low unit cost. It has been demonstrated successfully in under water deployments of up to 4 km of fiber at speeds of up to 30 knots, and at depths of over 400 feet, all with continuous signal transmission.