In the growing world of telecommunication infrastructure, submarine cables serve as the foundation of global connectivity, carrying nearly 99 % of transoceanic data traffic. Despite their critical role, the regulatory landscape governing these cables remains complex and, at times, fragmented. Andrés Fígoli Pacheco’s Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Telecommunication Submarine Cables stands out as a key book that clarifies these complex aspects. The book addresses the essential legal and regulatory challenges facing this critical infrastructure and offers practical solutions to enhance its security, resilience, and functionality.

Andrés Fígoli brings a wealth of experience to this topic. As the director of Fígoli Consulting, he provides specialized legal and regulatory advice on all aspects of subsea cable work. Mr. Fígoli’s academic background includes a law degree from the University of the Republic in Uruguay, earned in 2002, and a Master of Laws (LLM) from Northwestern University. His nearly 21 years of experience in submarine cable projects at a major wholesale telecommunications company, coupled with his role as Director and Member of the Executive Committee of the International Cable Protection Committee (2015–2023), lend him a deep and practical understanding of the subject matter.

Written with the intent of guiding cable operators, policymakers, legal professionals, and scholars, the book offers a comprehensive and accessible overview of the regulatory challenges and considerations surrounding submarine cables. Fígoli’s book serves as a practical guide, not merely a theoretical work, to help readers navigate the complex legal landscape of submarine cable operations. The author has gathered a collection of articles, many of which appeared in Submarine Telecoms Forum Magazine, and complemented these with in-depth examinations of court cases and specific rules from different jurisdictions. The book is structured into categories and sub-chapters, each focusing on distinct legal aspects such as ownership, installation, operation, and maintenance of submarine cables. This layout allows readers to easily find their specific areas of interest, making it both a reference guide and a holistic introduction to the field.

Fígoli’s book deals with several critical themes surrounding the legal and regulatory landscape of submarine cables, beginning with the urgent need to enhance the security and resilience of these infrastructures. He argues that the current international protection framework, rooted in an 1884 convention designed for telegraphy, is no longer fit for purpose. This outdated regulatory foundation, combined with the lack of coordinated international efforts, leaves submarine cables vulnerable to negligent damage, such as that caused by fishing or anchoring activities. Fígoli calls for countries to take immediate action to update their regulations to better protect these underwater assets. He suggests that governments, telecom regulators, and local navies should collaborate as part of a digital sovereignty strategy to safeguard these critical components of global connectivity. To further this cause, he proposes the development of a new international treaty, guided by the UN, to criminalize harmful activities targeting submarine cables – drawing parallels to existing international regulations in aviation and cyberspace.

The book also touches upon the intersection of geopolitics and business in the deployment of new submarine cables. Fígoli notes that some government strategies focus more on geopolitical objectives, such as establishing a country as a communications hub, rather than prioritizing the practical protection of cables from everyday threats. He emphasizes that countries aiming for digital sovereignty must diversify their suppliers of cable-laying and maintenance services to avoid over-reliance on any single provider, which could lead to vulnerabilities. While geopolitical concerns are important, Fígoli stresses that they should not overshadow the need for robust measures to address more traditional threats to cables, such as fishing activities and anchor dragging—still the leading causes of cable damage globally. He argues that these two perspectives, geopolitical strategy and practical risk management, are not mutually exclusive and must be balanced to ensure the security of submarine cables.

A major theme in the book is the growing dominance of Over-the-Top (OTT) players in the global bandwidth market. Fígoli discusses how these companies have come to control the major routes of global data traffic, raising concerns about oligopolistic tendencies. He points out that the current environment makes it challenging for new submarine infrastructure projects to proceed without OTT involvement, as their financial power and scale can easily overshadow the efforts of traditional telecom operators. The book critically examines the implications of this trend for competition and national digital sovereignty. Fígoli calls for more vigilant oversight from telecom and antitrust regulators to ensure a fair and competitive market, especially when it comes to forming submarine cable consortiums and negotiating long-term capacity lease agreements or Indefeasible Right to Use (IRU) agreements.

The complexity of contracts and regulations in the submarine cable sector is another area of focus. Fígoli highlights how legal, engineering, and sales teams within cable companies often struggle with the intricacies of drafting and negotiating agreements, such as cable landing agreements and the various provisions required by financial stakeholders. He describes how these challenges are exacerbated by the increasing interdependence of legal work, technical specifications, and commercial considerations. The book offers tools and strategies to help industry professionals navigate these complexities, reduce litigation risks, and achieve more balanced and secure agreements. It also addresses the evolving nature of litigation in this field, noting the rise of more sophisticated fraudulent schemes are emerging, involving actors like opportunistic landowners, local backhaul providers, or even fishermen who might exploit legal and regulatory gaps.

Fígoli looks ahead and talks about how the global submarine cable market might grow. He believes that new companies can still join as long as antitrust and telecom regulators keep the system safe from unfair business practices. He also advocates for the submarine cable industry to take part in maritime planning initiatives to ensure the coordinated and sustainable use of the seabed alongside other activities such as mining or fishing. He raises the idea of SMART cables, which integrate traditional telecom functions with marine scientific research. These cables offer additional benefits, such as early tsunami detection and enhanced cable protection measures. Fígoli views SMART cables as a paradigm shift for the industry but also emphasizes that they require a new regulatory framework to maximize their potential benefits while ensuring legal clarity and environmental sustainability.

A recurring theme throughout the book is the need to harmonize legal frameworks across regions to ensure the integrity of submarine cable networks. Fígoli argues that the fragmented legal systems currently governing these cables pose a significant risk to their stability and calls for a coordinated global effort to protect these critical infrastructures. He introduces three tests to assess the level of digital sovereignty in any given country, encouraging stakeholders to engage in open discussions aimed at improving policies and strategies. Additionally, the book explores Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) as a tool for managing ocean activities in a sustainable way, balancing the need to protect submarine cables passing through Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) with respect for national rights and environmental concerns.

Overall, Fígoli’s book raises critical awareness about the environmental, legal, and competitive challenges facing the submarine cable industry. He critiques the practice of greenwashing, where superficial environmental measures are adopted without genuine impact, and calls for more transparent and meaningful sustainability practices. The book also provides practical recommendations for improving the legal frameworks governing submarine cables, from enhancing IRU agreements and Cable Supply Agreements (CSAs) to tackling antitrust concerns. It serves as both a call to action for stakeholders in the industry to engage in meaningful dialogue and a strategic guide for navigating the complexities of this critical infrastructure.

As the reliance on global digital connectivity continues to increase, the importance of the legal frameworks governing submarine cables cannot be overstated. Fígoli’s book provides a timely reminder of the necessity for robust, harmonised regulations that safeguard these vital infrastructures while facilitating innovation and international collaboration.

Article written by Aldo Monaca and Gioia Indelicato and published here: https://ihr.iho.int/articles/legal-and-regulatory-aspects-of-telecommunication-submarine-cables/.

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This year was a particularly special milestone for Oceans & Cables as we proudly celebrated our 10th anniversary. A decade of hard work, innovation, and growth has brought us to where we are today, and it was a moment of reflection and pride for the entire team.

But beyond marking our 10-year anniversary, 2024 has been a year filled with meaningful progress and achievements. We embraced a host of work commitments, strengthened our connections with long-standing clients, and built relationships with new ones. The energy and optimism shared within our team and through our collaborations have been truly inspiring, making it a year filled with positivity.

Reflecting on the past year, it is clear that 2024 was not only about celebrating the past but also about paving the way for the future. From tackling challenging projects to adopting cutting-edge technological tools, we have continuously strived to improve and adapt. Each project brought its own lessons, enabling us to refine our expertise and deliver even greater value to our clients.

Innovation has been at the heart of our success. Leveraging new tools and technologies has allowed us to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry, ensuring we provide efficient and forward-thinking solutions for submarine cable installation and consultancy.

As we close this chapter of our 10th year, our gratitude extends to everyone who has been part of our journey, mainly our dedicated team, our trusted partners, and our loyal clients. Without their support and collaboration, our accomplishments would not have been possible.

Looking ahead, we are excited for the opportunities the future holds. With the same passion and dedication that have defined us for the past decade, Oceans & Cables is committed to continuing its legacy of excellence, innovation, and reliability in the years to come.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Oceans & Cables 2024 Round Up first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

In October 2014, Oceans & Cables Limited was founded with a clear mission: To deliver expert solutions in submarine cable installation and oceanographic services. Ten years later, we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with our dedicated team, a group of professionals who have been integral to our success.

Recently, we commemorated our tenth anniversary with a team dinner, where we reflected on our journey and shared our vision for the future. Speeches highlighted the company’s direction, evolving alongside advancements in submarine cable technology and the marine industries we serve. From telecom and offshore energy to marine construction and ocean research, Oceans & Cables has made a mark as a reliable partner, delivering solutions that push boundaries and meet industry needs.

The past ten years have been remarkable, thanks to our dedicated teams both inshore and offshore, as well as our clients who have trusted us to carry out complex projects with precision and reliability. As we celebrate our achievements, we’re looking ahead with excitement, ready to innovate and expand further into offshore renewables and continue supporting our clients in telecom, marine construction, and ocean research.

Here’s to the next decade of Oceans & Cables, where every project brings us closer to a brighter, sustainable future.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Celebrating a Decade of Oceans & Cables Limited first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

Last week, a significant joint statement was issued on the occasion of the 79th United Nations General Assembly by a coalition of nations, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom, among others. The statement, which focuses on the crucial role of undersea cable infrastructure in global communications and economic growth, carries immense importance for companies like Oceans & Cables Limited which specialise in submarine cable installation and consultancy services.

As the statement notes, “Undersea cables, together with other elements of the information and communications technology ecosystem, continue to transform the way we communicate and the way we live.” These cables, spanning oceans and connecting continents, form the backbone of the Internet, facilitating global data transmission with unparalleled capacity, low latency, and reliability. This is a reality we live and breathe at Oceans & Cables, where our mission is to ensure the secure, reliable, and resilient deployment of this critical infrastructure.

However, this growing reliance on undersea cables introduces national security risks, making it imperative to protect them from threats. As highlighted in the joint statement, “Protecting the security, resilience, and integrity of undersea cables is critical to global communications, economic growth, and development.” The security of these cables cannot be taken for granted, and the need for robust measures to safeguard them has never been more pressing. This is why at Oceans & Cables, we place a premium on adopting best practices and cutting-edge technology to ensure that the cables we deploy and maintain are resilient against any potential threats, whether they come from physical damage or cyber interference.

The principles outlined by the endorsers of this statement offer valuable guidance for the future of undersea cable infrastructure. Among these principles are:

• Designing cable infrastructure with “resilience, redundancy, and security in mind.”
• Promoting the “selection of secure and verifiable subsea cable providers for new cable projects.”
• Emphasising “closer government and industry coordination for supporting responsible undersea cable deployment, maintenance, and repair.”
• Encouraging “alternative submarine cable routes with a view to improving resilience of the global cables network.”

These points reflect our company’s core values at Oceans & Cables. Our work in the submarine cable sector is deeply tied to these global standards and best practices, and this joint statement serves as a clear signal that we are heading in the right direction. In addition, the call for increased cooperation between governments and private industry to ensure secure and resilient cable networks resonates with our approach.

We encourage other stakeholders in the submarine cable industry to follow these principles, as endorsed by the joint statement. Collaboration is the key to ensuring a secure and resilient global communications network, and it is only through united efforts that we can safeguard this critical infrastructure. At Oceans & Cables, we stand ready to play our part in creating a secure, interconnected world, one cable at a time.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post The Critical Importance of Securing Undersea Cable Infrastructure first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

Safeguarding the Arteries of Global Connectivity

In our hyper-connected world, most global data transmission relies on submarine cables. These undersea networks are the backbone of the Internet, enabling everything from international financial transactions to streaming services. Yet, despite their importance, submarine cables face significant security threats that can disrupt global communications, economies, and even national security. As a leading expert in submarine cable installation and services, Oceans & Cables Ltd understands the gravity of these risks and the critical need for robust security measures.

Submarine cables are not just vital for the telecom industry; they also support the operations of the offshore energy industry, offshore wind industry, marine construction sector, and ocean research sector. These industries depend on the reliability and functionality of these cables, making their security paramount. Submarine cables face a variety of security threats that can be broadly categorised into natural and human-made risks such as physical damage, deliberate sabotage, cybersecurity threats and geopolitical risks.

At Oceans & Cables, we recognise that the security of submarine cables is not just about preventing physical damage but also about ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the data they carry.

Submarine cables are the unseen arteries of global connectivity, and their security is of paramount importance. With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and the growing threats they face, it is essential to prioritise the protection of these critical assets.

As we continue to expand our services into new areas like offshore renewable energy, our commitment to innovation, reliability, and security remains unwavering. We are here to safeguard the future of global communication and connectivity, ensuring that these vital infrastructures remain resilient and secure in the face of evolving challenges.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Security Threats to Submarine Cables first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

Oceans & Cables, a leading submarine cable consultancy and ocean services company, is proud to announce its membership in the Association of Offshore Renewable Energies (AERO). This significant partnership underscores Oceans & Cables’ commitment to advancing offshore renewable energy development and contributing to the offshore renewable energy sector.

The Association of Offshore Renewable Energies (AERO) is dedicated to promoting the development of offshore renewable energies. AERO’s mission is to be established as a leading player in the offshore renewable energy industry by fostering job creation, technological innovation, and local community engagement. The organisation advocates for a stable and transparent regulatory framework to support the growth of installed capacity and the development of a robust supply chain for the offshore renewable energy sector.

Joining AERO aligns perfectly with Oceans & Cables’ strategic vision of contributing to the global energy transition and sustainable development. As a member of AERO, Oceans & Cables will actively collaborate with industry stakeholders, communities, and educational institutions to promote offshore renewable energy projects. This partnership will facilitate the creation of jobs, economic development of coastal areas, and technological advancements, all while ensuring environmental protection and sustainability.

“We are thrilled to join AERO and contribute to the development of offshore renewable energies in Italy,” said Aldo Monaca, Director of Oceans & Cables Limited. “This membership marks a significant milestone for our company, as it allows us to leverage our expertise and become a leader in the offshore renewable energy sector. We look forward to working with AERO and its members to drive innovation and create lasting positive impacts on the environment and local communities.”

Oceans & Cables is excited about the opportunities this membership brings and is committed to playing a pivotal role in advancing offshore renewable energy. The company looks forward to contributing to AERO’s initiatives and working towards a sustainable and prosperous future for the offshore renewable energy sector.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Oceans & Cables joins AERO to drive Offshore Renewable Energy Innovation first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

Today’s article tackles the topic of geopolitics and submarine cables. In an international situation of increasing security risks to these critical infrastructures, each and every operator in the industry must be aware of the strategic, economic, and political value of submarine cables to states and companies. Handling with extreme caution any sensitive information about the positioning of such infrastructure, such as the ability to develop an analysis about the most profitable routes in terms of protection from sabotage and espionage threats are skills more necessary than ever for operators.

The ability to represent the full interest of investing companies in a cable-laying project goes through the ability to ensure the best solutions in order to avoid man-made damage, the number one threat to cable security. This sector is finally the subject of great interest from institutions, which are intent on ensuring the operations and safety of these critical infrastructures as a primary objective.

The goal of Oceans & Cables, through the work of its practitioners, is to be a firm reference point for companies in implementing consistent protection practices. The company also aims to set up a fruitful dialogue with institutions to translate political will to ensure greater cable protection into practice. The technical knowledge of operators is a valuable resource that Oceans & Cables is intent on further enhancing by making operators more aware of their role in relation to today’s geopolitical dynamics specific to the industry. Operators who are more aware of the importance of their role will produce more thoughtful choices for the laying projects that Oceans & Cables is engaged with every day. To this, our plans include putting up this important topic in each and every training given to our operators in the client rep subsea cable installation.

This article was written by Dr Gabriele Olivieri, a collaborator of Oceans & Cables. Dr Olivieri is a geopolitical and international security specialist who brings experiences through his studies and scholarships focused on issues related to the security of critical infrastructures in terrestrial and underwater environments.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

The post Geopolitics and Submarine Cables first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

The 21^st of June marked the celebration of World Hydrography Day. For this yearly celebration, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) issues on a yearly basis a theme. This year’s theme was “Hydrographic Information – Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities”. The World Hydrography Day is a very important date and is designed to raise awareness about hydrography and how it plays a role in improved knowledge of the seas and oceans.

To celebrate this day, Director Charlene Sciberras attended an event organised by the Italian Hydrography Society (IHS) in Acireale (Sicily), Italy, following the theme issued by IHO. Distinguished guests addressed the attendees on various topics in relation to this years’ theme. The event had the patronage of the IHO and the Istituto Idrografico della Marina di Genova. The aim was to raise public awareness and understanding of the critical role hydrography and hydrographers play in achieving a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our oceans.

The conference agenda featured interesting presentations and valuable insights from leading hydrographic professionals. It explored varies interesting topics such as the contribution of offshore wind to environmental knowledge and the energy transition, application of standards for hydrographic surveys, tools for the design and development of floating wind farms, approaches to observing of the deep marine environment for scientific purposes and more.

Hydrography is crucial for all sea-related activities. It is a branch of applied sciences focused on measuring and describing the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, as well as predicting their changes over time. The primary goal is to ensure safe navigation and support various marine activities such as economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.

Besides promoting safe and efficient ship navigation, hydrography is essential for numerous sea-related activities, including resource exploitation, environmental protection and management, marine spatial data infrastructures, boating, maritime defense and security, tsunami flood and inundation modelling, coastal zone management, tourism, and marine science. This definition of hydrography is given by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

To achieve mastery in underwater environments, it is essential to have comprehensive hydrospatial data from the seabed to the surface. This vital information is provided by the field of hydrography, guided by skilled hydrographers. Here at Oceans & Cables, as our reliance on marine environments continues to grow, the importance of hydrography in ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable use of these vital resources cannot be overstated.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post World Hydrography Day 2024 first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

The first quarter of 2024 proved to be a whirlwind of activity for the dedicated team at Oceans & Cables, with ventures spanning continents and industries. Here’s a closer look at the highlights.

The year commenced with Oceans & Cables’ annual hands-on team meeting, setting the stage for the ambitious plans of 2024. This foundational gathering laid the groundwork for the months ahead, ensuring alignment and focus across the organisation.

February saw the team embarking on a journey to Italy, where we explored partnership opportunities and delved into discussions for potential collaborations within the Interreg Europe framework, specifically between Malta and Italy. Additionally, we made a significant presence at KEY – The Energy Transition Expo in Rimini, an esteemed event showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions in energy efficiency and renewable energies across Italy and the Mediterranean.

Continuing the globe-trotting activities, we ventured to Spain to participate in Wind Europe, a premier conference and exhibition dedicated to both on- and offshore wind energy.

As the calendar turned to April, the pace didn’t slow down for Oceans & Cables. With Brussels as the next destination, the team eagerly anticipated the Digital Ocean Industry Symposium. Following this event, we are off to Singapore for the ICPC event, organised by the International Cable Protection Committee. Notably, April also marked Oceans & Cables’ sponsorship of the THSOA (The Hydrographic Society of America) Southeast Chapter’s 17 Crawfish Boil 2024, reaffirming our involvement within the hydrographic community.

These bustling months proved instrumental in fortifying Oceans & Cables’ presence on the global stage. Through strategic engagements, networking opportunities, and sponsorships, the team not only showcased our expertise but also unearthed new avenues for growth and collaboration. As we look back on the first quarter of 2024, Oceans & Cables stands poised for continued success, armed with a strengthened resolve and a bounty of promising prospects on the horizon.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Oceans & Cables Making Waves first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.

Many submarine cables are used for communication purposes and carry a large amount of data across the globe. In fact, most of the Internet traffic is entirely dependent on these submarine cables. With the constant rising demand for the Internet on a worldwide level, the demand for submarine cables is constantly and drastically increasing as well. In 2022, the world had 530 active submarine cables, in 2023, the figure rose to 552, and in early 2024 we are already at 574 active cables… there is an increase in number of submarine cables of 4% annually. This article will tackle the impact of such demand on the submarine cables.

Rising bandwidth demand refers to the increasing need for data transmission capacity, driven by various factors such as the proliferation of Internet-connected devices, growth in data-heavy applications like video streaming and cloud computing, and advancements in technologies such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence. This demand is particularly pronounced in regions experiencing rapid economic development and increasing Internet penetration.

These undersea cables or submarine communication cables are essential components of global telecommunications infrastructure. They are laid on the ocean floor and carry the vast majority of international telecommunications and internet traffic. The impact of rising bandwidth demand on submarine cables is significant:

Capacity Expansion: As bandwidth demand increases, submarine cable operators need to continually expand the capacity of existing cables or lay new cables to accommodate the growing traffic. This may involve deploying more advanced cable technologies, such as higher-capacity fibre-optic cables and even new cable routes to better serve regions with high demand.

Technological Advancements: To meet the escalating demand for bandwidth, there’s a continuous drive towards developing more efficient and higher-capacity submarine cable systems. This includes advancements in cable design, such as improved transmission technologies, as well as innovations in network management and monitoring systems to optimise performance and reliability.

Economic Impact: The investment required to meet rising bandwidth demand through submarine cables is substantial. Cable laying projects involve significant upfront costs for planning, surveying, manufacturing, and installation. However, the economic benefits can be considerable, as robust telecommunications infrastructure is critical for supporting economic growth, trade, and innovation on a global scale.

Resilience and Redundancy: As submarine cables become increasingly vital for global connectivity, ensuring their resilience and redundancy becomes paramount. Cable operators must implement measures to protect cables from natural disasters, marine activity, and other potential hazards. Additionally, establishing redundant cable routes and interconnection points helps mitigate the risk of service disruptions due to cable breaks or maintenance activities.

Environmental Considerations: The installation and maintenance of submarine cables can have environmental implications, such as potential disturbances to marine ecosystems during cable laying operations. As awareness of environmental issues grows, there’s a greater emphasis on implementing sustainable practices and minimising the ecological footprint of submarine cable projects.

Overall, rising bandwidth demand underscores the critical importance of submarine cables in facilitating global communications and connectivity. Meeting this demand requires ongoing investment, innovation, and collaboration among industry stakeholders to ensure the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of submarine cable infrastructure.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

The post Rising Bandwidth Demand and the impact on Submarine Cables first appeared on Oceans & Cables: Marine cable installation.