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Nokia has announced its plans to manufacture fiber broadband optical modules in the United States, in support of the nation’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. The company has partnered with Fabrinet, a leader in precision optical products, to produce multi-rate optical modules at Fabrinet’s facility in Santa Clara, California. This strategic partnership is set to begin production in 2024 and will create new job opportunities in the high-tech sector.

This expansion follows Nokia’s earlier decision to manufacture fiber-optic broadband network electronic products in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Optical modules are a crucial component of advanced fiber broadband networks, as they convert electrical signals into light and vice versa. By establishing local manufacturing capabilities for optical modules in the U.S., Nokia aims to enhance its portfolio of products and solutions that are tailored for network rollouts supported by the BEAD program.

The BEAD program, which has a significant .45 billion fund allocation for expanding broadband in unserved and underserved communities, requires that equipment deployed must be manufactured within the United States. Nokia’s partnership with Fabrinet and its collaboration with Sanmina Corporation to produce fiber-optic broadband network electronics in Wisconsin align with the company’s commitment to manufacturing within the U.S.

The use of multi-rate optical modules enables operators to seamlessly upgrade speeds from 1 Gig to Multi-Gig, supported by Nokia’s cutting-edge 25G solutions and ongoing research into 100G technology. This ensures that fiber networks built by operators will meet the evolving demands of users for years to come. In the North American market, over 70 percent of fiber broadband lines are powered by Nokia’s solutions.

Sandy Motley, President of Fixed Networks at Nokia, expressed her excitement about this milestone achievement, showing that manufacturing optical modules in the U.S. is indeed possible. Harpal Gill, President and COO of Fabrinet, also shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting their commitment to bridging the digital divide.

Nokia’s efforts in the U.S. not only support the BEAD program but also contribute to job creation and the advancement of the nation’s broadband connectivity goals. Their commitment to manufacturing within the U.S. underscores their dedication to providing innovative solutions and supporting the development of high-speed, multi-gigabit broadband connections for homes.

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