New Zealand's vulnerable undersea data cables have a new guardian – one that's watching around the clock for any incursion that could instantly disconnect essential services and communications.
“Large volumes of these cables are vulnerable to damage, particularly those in waters shallower than 200m which lie close to busy fishing and shipping routes,” said Associate Minister of Transport James Meager.
The 27/4 monitoring system, called the National Surveillance and Warning Capability, uses vessel monitoring software to identify risks to the cables.
When a ship gets close enough to potentially cause damage, the Maritime Operations Centre in Wellington will be notified and can directly contact the vessel to advise them of the risks.
“Even minor contact from fishing gear or anchors can compromise a cable’s protective outer layer. When this occurs, there is a real risk of widespread digital disruption, with significant impacts for businesses, communities and the wider economy,” said Meager.
Undersea cables carry around 99% of New Zealand’s data traffic.
The system will be delivered by IT company Kordia and Wellington-based Starboard Marine Intelligence, in a collaboration with Government.
The rollout follows a trial in the Hauraki Gulf and Muriwai Cable Areas last year.
“I thank all of those involved from the sector, including Starboard and Kordia, for delivering this world-first technology. The trial made clear this is a winner, with both organisations quickly awarded overseas contracts to also deliver the capability in European waters,” said Meager.
The creation of this technology has been enabled through a Budget 2024 investment, while the 24/7 surveillance costs come at no expense to the taxpayer, with the companies that own the assets paying for it.
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