With the installation of the first optical equipment, the NRRP-funded projects TeRABIT and ICSC officially enter the implementation phase for the network component.Given the tight deadlines and administrative tasks required by the NRRP, this is an important initial achievement.

GARR has rapidly consolidated requirements, finalised network designs, and prepared technical specifications, and necessary documentation for tenders, both for fibre acquisition and new network equipment.

In recent months, procurement procedures for the three tenders have been completed, contracts have been signed, and orders have been placed for a total value of €52.3 million, including approximately €32.7 million for asset acquisition and about €19.7 million for technical assistance and infrastructure maintenance. 

The initial steps involve installing interconnection termination sites between Sardinia and the GARR-T backbone using the optical spectrum over submarine cables.

Additionally, new fibre infrastructure is being deployed in Abruzzo and Sardinia. Conducting tenders concurrently for both projects has proved to be a success factor in ensuring the full interoperability of the equipment and the development of a homogeneous network infrastructure according to GARR-T specifications.