Abstract: A strength element for a fiber optic transmission cable is integrally formed from a fiber reinforced resin material and it comprises a longitudinally extending central portion and a plurality of longitudinally extending ribs which project substantially radially outwardly from the central portion and define a plurality of substantially longitudinally extending grooves for receiving and positioning optical fibers around the strength element. The ribs are preferably formed in outwardly tapered configurations, and the outer terminal ends of the ribs and the inner extremities of the grooves between the ribs are preferably formed in rounded configurations to increase the resistance of the strength element to breakage during bending.