What's Happening?
ASN and OMS have commenced the Tamtam subsea cable project in partnership with Vanuatu-based Prima, aiming to enhance connectivity between Vanuatu and New Caledonia. The project, which began with a contract signed in January 2024, involves the design,
manufacture, and deployment of a 375-km cable, with an option to extend to Fiji and Australia. The Tamtam cable will provide Vanuatu with a backup international connectivity route and extend domestic fiber connectivity to Tanna, Norsup, and Luganville. Additionally, the cable will integrate climate change monitoring solutions using seismic sensors for tsunami detection. This initiative is part of a broader industry effort to transform subsea infrastructure into 'Scientific Monitoring and Reliable Telecommunications (SMART)' cables, serving both scientific and resilience objectives.
Why It's Important?
The Tamtam cable project is significant for Vanuatu as it enhances the country's international connectivity and resilience against natural disasters. By providing a backup route, the cable ensures more reliable internet access, which is crucial for economic development and public safety. The integration of climate change monitoring technology also positions Vanuatu to better manage and mitigate the impacts of natural hazards, a critical need given the region's vulnerability to such events. This project reflects a growing trend in the telecommunications industry to incorporate environmental monitoring capabilities into infrastructure, highlighting the dual role of technology in connectivity and environmental stewardship.
What's Next?
The Tamtam cable is expected to be operational by the end of 2027. As the project progresses, stakeholders will likely focus on the successful deployment and integration of the cable's monitoring capabilities. The initiative may prompt similar projects in other regions, particularly those vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters. The collaboration between ASN, OMS, and Prima could serve as a model for future projects that aim to combine telecommunications with environmental monitoring.
