Protecting our critical underwater infrastructure

Critical underwater infrastructure (CUI) such as the telecommunications cables that connect the country to the world will be better protected through breakthrough technology launched today, Associate Transport Minister James Meager says.

Mr Meager unveiled the National Surveillance and Warning Capability at the Maritime Operations Centre in Wellington this afternoon.

“This new 24/7 monitoring system is a world-first and will go a long way in ensuring submarine cables on our shores are protected, which are vital to New Zealand’s security and resilience as they carry around 99 percent of our data traffic,” Mr Meager says.

“Large volumes of these cables are vulnerable to damage, particularly those in waters shallower than 200 metres which lie close to busy fishing and shipping routes.

“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.”

The new system, to be delivered by Kordia and Starboard Maritime Intelligence, will trigger an alert to staff when vessel activity risks damaging nearby CUI. This will prompt direct contact to mariners notifying them of the risks and their legal obligations when entering cable protection zones.

Mr Meager says the technology is a collaboration between the Government and industry, with its rollout following a successful 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,” Mr Meager says.

“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.

“Our Government is committed to fixing the basics and building the future, and this is exactly what this new system achieves. This is one of 10 workstreams under way to improve the security and resilience of New Zealand’s CUI.” ...