CLAREMONT, N.C. - CommScope (NASDAQ: COMM), a company specializing in network connectivity, has announced plans to expand its production facilities to meet the anticipated demand for fiber-optic connectivity products in the United States. This expansion aims to comply with the Build America Buy America (BABA) requirements, focusing on products that facilitate the construction of rural broadband networks.
The company's expansion will take place at its existing broadband portfolio manufacturing sites, with increased production targeting key products such as Fiber Optic Splice Closures (FOSC®), fiber distribution cabinets, and connectorized hardened and non-hardened fiber terminals. These products are designed to support the development of broadband infrastructure, particularly in rural areas.
CommScope's preparations for the expansion are underway, with production expected to align with industry demand by the third quarter of 2024. The initiative is part of CommScope's commitment to support federal and state-funded projects that adhere to BABA domestic preference requirements.
Koen ter Linde (NYSE:LIN), SVP & president of Connectivity & Cable Solutions at CommScope, emphasized the company's dedication to making it easier for partners and customers to access funding subject to BABA requirements. He noted CommScope's long-standing role in promoting broadband access and its readiness to meet various network architecture challenges.
The expansion builds on CommScope's track record in rural broadband applications, including the shipment of over 2 million FOSC units in the U.S. over the past two years. These shipments have supported government-funded initiatives like the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) aimed at providing internet access to all.
CommScope already offers a range of BABA-compliant products and is set to enhance this portfolio further with the expansion. The HeliARC™ fiber-optic cable solution leads CommScope's BABA-compliant offerings. Additional information on the portfolio and timelines will be released later in the first quarter, assisting partners and customers in planning their government-funded projects.
The company expressed gratitude to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for its collaboration throughout this process and looks forward to contributing to the Broadband for Everyone™ initiative.
This expansion announcement is based on a press release statement from CommScope.
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