Norway Advances Arctic Connectivity with SubCom Partnership for Arctic Way Cable

Space Norway has entered into a partnership with subsea cable specialist SubCom to develop the Arctic Way subsea cable system, a critical new infrastructure project set to enhance connectivity within the Arctic region. The ambitious initiative aims to establish a direct link between mainland Norway and the remote Arctic archipelago of Svalbard, with the system slated to become operational by 2028.

The 2,350-kilometer cable will traverse the Arctic Circle, connecting the Norwegian city of Bodø and the isolated island of Jan Mayen to Longyearbyen, the administrative center of Svalbard. Although the system’s total data capacity has yet to be disclosed, it is expected to significantly bolster communications infrastructure in the High North, providing a more resilient and secure digital backbone for the region.

Morten Tengs, CEO of Space Norway, emphasized the project’s strategic importance, stating: “This cable system is imperative to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for Arctic communities and to support Norway’s strategic interests in the region.” Tengs highlighted that the Arctic Way initiative will not only improve digital communication but also strengthen Norway’s sovereignty and security in the Arctic, a region of increasing geopolitical significance.

SubCom, a leading U.S.-based provider of subsea cable solutions, has been designated as the primary contractor for the Arctic Way project. The company will oversee the comprehensive scope of the undertaking, including surveying, designing, manufacturing, and installing the cable network.

David Coughlan, CEO of SubCom, expressed confidence in the company’s ability to execute the complex project. “SubCom has maintained a successful relationship with Space Norway for decades, including our participation in the supply of the original Svalbard cable system. Our extensive experience operating in one of the most unique marine environments on the planet will enable us to efficiently produce and deploy this critical subsea infrastructure on behalf of Space Norway,” Coughlan said.

At present, Svalbard is connected to mainland Norway via two existing subsea cables. While these cables are approaching the end of their operational lifespan, they will remain in service as backup systems once the Arctic Way cable is deployed. The new infrastructure is expected to enhance network stability and redundancy for Arctic communications.

The Arctic Way initiative aligns with broader trends in global subsea cable development. Earlier this year, GlobalConnect joined the Polar Connect consortium, a multinational effort to construct a subsea Internet cable linking the North Pole to Europe and Asia. Similarly, in the Southern Hemisphere, Chile’s Undersecretariat of Telecommunications is advancing plans to build a subsea cable connecting Antarctica to the South American mainland.

Space Norway, a publicly owned entity under the Norwegian Ministry of Trade and Industry (NFD), plays a central role in managing the country’s space and digital infrastructure. In addition to its involvement in subsea communications, the company provides broadband connectivity to remote research stations, including Antarctica’s Troll research station via Telenor’s Thor 7 satellite.

The Arctic Way project represents a strategic leap forward in Arctic connectivity, reinforcing Norway’s leadership in high-latitude telecommunications and ensuring resilient digital links for both civilian and governmental operations in the region.

AE - Articles and Essays
SLHA and news agencies, 19 February 2025