The EU-funded ICON project (Intent and Context-aware Optical Network) addresses the demand for smarter, more adaptive networks by embedding sensing capabilities directly into the architecture of optical networks.
As traditional communication systems approach their limits, the demand for smarter, more adaptive networks is rapidly increasing. The EU-funded ICON project (Intent and Context-aware Optical Network) addresses this challenge by embedding sensing capabilities directly into the architecture of optical networks. Its ultimate goal is to transform terrestrial and subsea fibre infrastructure into a global-scale sensing network, capable of detecting geological disturbances, monitoring meteorological and oceanographic phenomena, and supporting urban mobility systems.
By combining advanced fibre sensing with an intelligent control system, ICON will not only enhance transmission performance and energy efficiency but also enable the management of diverse sensing services. This innovative approach aims to redefine the future of communication systems by delivering context-aware functionalities that go far beyond conventional signal monitoring.
Project objective
The ICON project establishes a research foundation for a new generation of optical networks, where sensing is embedded as a fundamental part of the system architecture. These networks will offer integrated sensing services, transforming existing terrestrial and undersea fibre infrastructure into a unified platform capable of supporting a wide array of sensing applications.
Applications include the detection of geological activity, observation of global weather and oceanographic patterns, and enhancement of urban mobility. To manage and coordinate such services, ICON will develop a modular and extensible intelligent sensing controller, which will include an intent interpreter and a network digital twin to retain state information and enable adaptive control.
As part of future communication systems, ICON’s functions and sensing devices will support transmission optimisation well beyond current signal monitoring techniques. The project will enable fibre networks to become context-aware—monitoring both internal network conditions and the surrounding environment. This sensing dimension introduces powerful new tools for optimising performance, increasing network availability, and improving energy efficiency.