Contract for World's first SMART cable establishment signed

A contract has been signed for the establishment of the world's first Sensor Monitoring and Reliable Telecommunications (SMART) cable connecting Vanuatu and New Caledonia, expected to be operational in 2026.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Prima, a telecommunications and data infrastructure firm in Vanuatu, Simon Fletcher, put pen to paper with the CEO of Ocean Marine Surveyors (OMS), Richard Sun and Vice President of Sales and Marketing of Alcatel Submarine Network (ASN), Paul Gabla, during the Pacific Telecoms Council Meeting in Hawaii yesterday.

Prima in collaboration with ASN will construct the project. OMS will be responsible for the marine installation of this system.

In a statement to announce the project establishment, Prima said the project aims to enhance digital connectivity and seismic monitoring in the Pacific region. 

“This ground-breaking project is set to provide not only a supplementary telecom cable to New Caledonia, extending to Australia and Fiji, but also a vital component in environmental monitoring,” the statement conveyed.

“The integration of four advanced Climate Change Nodes (CC Nodes) within this submarine cable system will facilitate real-time monitoring of seismic activities and efficient tsunami detection, particularly in the seismically volatile New Hebrides Trench.

“This innovative technology promises to revolutionize warning systems throughout the Pacific, enhancing security and preparedness against natural disasters.”

ASN stated, “More than just an infrastructural advancement, this SMART cable project symbolises the strength of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. By merging telecommunications with environmental monitoring technologies, this endeavor will substantially enhance the safety, connectivity, and scientific insight of the Pacific region.”

Prima also thanked key supporters of the project: the French Government for its steadfast support in this venture, showing unwavering commitment and encouragement, the Vanuatu Government for entrusting Prima with the implementation of this innovative hybrid cable, a gesture that signifies trust and collaboration, for its invaluable support, especially in relation to the Lifou landing, which has been pivotal in advancing the project.

ASN stated that it is thrilled to be part of such a transformative project. It also extended its appreciation to the SMART Joint Task Force whose consistent support and expertise have been crucial in realising this ambitious project.

Prima is responsible for maintenance and operations of the 'ICN1' subsea cable system, which connects Vanuatu to Suva, Fiji and has been operational since January 2014. It is 100% owned and operated by the people of Vanuatu.

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