- Fincantieri and Telecom Italia’s Sparkle agree to develop solutions for the surveillance and protection of submarine telecommunications cables.
- This collaboration aims to enhance the resilience of Italy’s digital infrastructure amid growing geopolitical tensions and reliance on submarine networks.
What happened: Fincantieri and Sparkle team up for protection
Fincantieri, the state-controlled shipbuilder, has partnered with Telecom Italia’s submarine cables unit, Sparkle, to develop solutions for the surveillance and protection of submarine telecommunications cables. This collaboration aims to ensure the operational resilience of Italy’s digital infrastructure, which is crucial for the country’s connectivity and growth in the technology sector. Fincantieri’s Chief Executive, Pierroberto Folgiero, emphasised that the partnership not only strengthens their commitment to digital security but also promotes the development of underwater civilian operations alongside military applications. Given the increasing geopolitical tensions and reliance on submarine networks, Fincantieri is investing more in the underwater sector, viewing it as a growing business. Sparkle operates a fibre-optic network exceeding 600,000 kilometres, with 90% comprised of submarine cables, and has previously initiated protection projects with various partners, including a collaboration with the Italian Navy in 2022.
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Why this is important
The collaboration between Fincantieri and Telecom Italia’s Sparkle is significant in the context of rising geopolitical tensions and the increasing reliance on submarine telecommunications networks. As global digital infrastructure becomes more critical for economic growth and national security, ensuring the protection of these underwater cables is paramount. Submarine cables carry approximately 95% of intercontinental data traffic, making them vital for connectivity in today’s digital economy. Fincantieri’s investment in the underwater sector reflects a broader trend where companies are recognising the strategic importance of safeguarding digital infrastructure. This partnership not only enhances Italy’s technological resilience but also aligns with similar initiatives worldwide, as nations and businesses seek to secure their digital assets against potential threats. Moreover, the involvement of Sparkle, which operates an extensive fibre-optic network, underscores the role of private companies in bolstering national security and infrastructure resilience. As cybersecurity threats evolve, collaborations like this one are essential for ensuring that critical communication channels remain operational and secure, ultimately benefiting businesses and citizens alike.
