UNDERWATER OPTICAL FIBER CABLE HAVING OPTICAL FIBER COUPLED TO GROOVED METALLIC CORE MEMBER

An optical fiber cable (20) includes a longitudinally extending copper core member (34). The core member is formed with at least one groove (36) in which is disposed at least one optical fiber. The optical fiber is coupled sufficiently to the core member preferably by an ultraviolet light energy cured material to substantially inhibit relative movement between the optical fiber and the core member when forces are applied to the cable. A sheath system which includes a plastic jacket (112) is disposed about the core member. The sheath system includes a strength member system which includes longitudinally extending copper wires (105, 105) and steel wires (101, 107). Disposed about the steel and copper wires is a steel shield (110) which provides hermetic protection for the optical fibers. A waterblocking material (108) is disposed among the wires and between an inner layer of the wires and the core member to cooperate with the compressive engagement of the inner layer of strength members with the core member to couple the strength members to the core member.