Dutch Government Commits €142 Million to Enhance Submarine Networks
Amsterdam, Friday, 6 December 2024.
The Dutch government has invested €142 million to boost Europe’s digital infrastructure, focusing on submarine networks crucial for secure and resilient data connectivity across borders.
Strategic Investment in Digital Infrastructure
This significant investment is part of a broader European Union initiative under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Digital program, which has signed grant agreements for 21 projects focusing on upgrading and deploying new connectivity backbone cables [1]. Submarine cables play a crucial role in global telecommunications, carrying more than 98% of international telecom traffic [1]. This investment represents a strategic move to strengthen Europe’s digital sovereignty and security infrastructure.
Advanced Security Features
The funded infrastructure projects incorporate cutting-edge security measures to protect these critical assets. Nearly all cables will be equipped with sophisticated geographical sensors for monitoring nearby activities and early warning systems for infrastructure protection [1]. Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy, Henna Virkkunen, emphasizes that these projects will implement the latest technology to enhance EU’s resilience [1].
Part of a Larger Investment Framework
This €142 million investment contributes to a total funding of €420 million for backbone cable projects under the first Work Programme 2021-23 [1]. Looking ahead, the EU has committed additional funding through the second CEF Digital Work Programme 2024-2027, making available €542 million for backbone connectivity projects [1]. The current open call for submissions extends until February 13, 2025, demonstrating the EU’s ongoing commitment to digital infrastructure development [1].
Global Context and Infrastructure Resilience
This investment comes at a crucial time when submarine cable infrastructure faces increasing challenges. Recent data shows that globally, there are approximately 150 to 200 cable faults annually, requiring about three cable repairs weekly [5]. To address these challenges, international bodies like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) have formed an International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience, highlighting the global focus on protecting these vital communication arteries [5].