17.02.2025

In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Pierpaolo Barone, the Purchasers’ Representative at Oceans & Cables Ltd. Pierpaolo offers an in-depth look into his responsibilities, the challenges he faces, and his perspectives on the company’s culture and future, especially as Oceans & Cables expands into the offshore renewable energy sector.

Can you describe your primary responsibilities as a Purchasers’ Representative at Oceans & Cables Ltd?

My primary role is to ensure that the work commissioned to contractors is carried out in accordance with the project specifications for which we have been appointed to represent the Consortium of purchasers or a single purchaser. Our main reference is the contract, anything outside of it and this chain of responsibility does not fall within our operational scope.

We interact exclusively with the contractor and do not have direct contact with other companies involved in the project. Our role can be summarised in one sentence: We are the purchaser’s eyes. This applies both to onboard activities and those carried out onshore. Our goal is to ensure that every operation is completed in compliance with the necessary technical and operational specifications to achieve the best possible result.

Since this is a 24-hour operation, our monitoring focuses on the most critical activities. Our work can be divided into two main phases:

1. Preliminary Studies
   These include all preparatory activities for cable laying, such as seabed analysis to determine the optimal route. In the specific case of submarine fiber optics, geophysical and geotechnical surveys are conducted, which may include core sampling and CPT tests. These studies are also essential in other contexts, such as the installation of power cables or the construction of offshore wind farms.
2. Operational Phase (Laying and Installation)
   During cable laying, monitoring focuses on key aspects such as:
   • Cable tension to ensure its integrity.
   • The passage of repeaters and branching units (BUs), which require special attention.
   • Specific operations such as cable head retrieval or temporary abandonment.
   • Any necessary repair interventions.

The goal is to ensure that all these operations are carried out in compliance with contractual and safety standards. Compliance with HSE (Health, Safety & Environment) procedures is essential to prevent accidents, delays, or, in the worst cases, serious consequences for the personnel involved.

All information and evaluations of the activities performed are compiled in the DPR (Daily Progress Report), a daily report sent to client distribution. This official document includes:

• Operations carried out during the day.
• The work plan for the following day.
• An hourly summary of activities performed.
• A comments section where we report observations and critical notes.
• Any incidents or anomalies detected.

Our role is not decision-making but observational and verification-based. We do not directly intervene in operations but monitor and document every phase of the work, ensuring that everything is carried out according to the required standards. Onboard, the figure of the Client Representative (the contractor’s representative) is our primary reference, and the DPR remains our most powerful communication tool as an official document tracking all performed activities. Most of the time, we attach diagrams and tables to further clarify the status of operations. In many cases, our role also extends to being professional consultants for Purchasers, who rely on our expertise and knowledge gained both through training received at Oceans & Cables and previous experience accumulated over the years.

How do you manage relationships with suppliers, and what strategies do you employ to maintain effective communication and collaboration?

Communication with clients is primarily based on two main tools:

1. The DPR (Daily Progress Report) – The daily report serves as the primary means of providing detailed information about ongoing operations. It is enriched with data, often accompanied by tables and explanatory graphs that help clarify both completed and planned activities.

2. Emails – Whenever doubts or disputes arise, clients reach out via email to request clarifications. Our response is based on detailed information provided by the contractor and supplemented by our technical analysis. Additionally, we ensure that purchasers are always updated by sending a nightly flash update email summarising the operations carried out during the day.

Our work does not follow a fixed schedule since operations take place 24/7. It may happen that a commercial or technical operation needs to be handled in the middle of the night; thus, we cannot adhere to a standard office schedule. Our availability is constant, ensuring prompt and effective responses, considering that purchasers operate in international consortia, distributed across different time zones. This requires flexibility and adaptability in communications.

In some situations, especially during beach landing operations for the cable’s onshore landing, we can interact directly with purchasers and local authorities. In such cases, it is crucial to explain the installation process and the various operational phases, considering that many local purchasers may not have direct experience with onboard activities.

Our task is to provide clear and detailed information on the work methodology, facilitating understanding and preventing any misunderstandings. If problems or misunderstandings arise with local authorities, our approach is always based on clarity and professionalism, providing the necessary data and documentation to ensure constructive dialogue.

When our work is performed correctly, providing comprehensive and clearly structured information, communication with clients and local authorities becomes smooth and collaborative. This helps maintain a relationship of mutual trust and recognition for the work done, ensuring successful operations.

What are some common challenges you encounter in your role, and how do you address them?

Our work presents several challenges, which can be categorised into two main areas:

Technical and Operational Challenges

Technical and operational difficulties involve both the execution of operations and contractual dynamics with the contractor. Since these projects are commercially driven, aimed at profitability, it is common for the contractor to try to optimise time and costs to their advantage. This can lead to:

• Accelerated or simplified executions of operations that, instead, require greater precision.
• Disputes over how specific tasks should be performed.

Our supervisory role often requires us to report these discrepancies, which are then handled by the appropriate offices, as we do not have direct decision-making power.

Another challenge involves bureaucracy. In certain geographical areas, obtaining permits can be slow or complex, causing operational delays. A frequent issue is the opposition of local fishermen, particularly during pre-laid shore end (PLSE) operations. In some cases, real sabotage occurs, such as placing obstacles in the ship’s path to damage the thrusters and stop the work. In such cases, mediation is attempted through a designated purchaser representative, who negotiates with the fishermen’s representatives to reach a compromise. Usually, the fishermen’s primary goal is to obtain financial compensation.

Other technical challenges include:

• Cable breakage during operations due to miscalculations on slack tension.
• Trawling damage, which can compromise the integrity of the cable after installation.
• Different operational requirements depending on geographical areas: the same operation may require different tools and techniques depending on the seabed type. For example, in rocky seabeds, a rock saw is required to cut the rock and allow the cable to be laid in an adequate trench, preventing excessive exposure or suspensions.

Logistical and Human Challenges

Logistical difficulties mainly arise from the itinerant nature of our work, which requires us to operate in various parts of the world, often in unpredictable conditions. Depending on the country, we may encounter security issues, including:

• Geopolitical risks or local instability.
• Delays in receiving equipment: in some areas, necessary materials may take several days to arrive, slowing down operations.

Another challenge can be language barriers. The local staff or crew may not always speak fluent English. In some cases, heavy accents make immediate understanding difficult. However, after a few days of interaction, communication improves.

Life Onboard

Life onboard presents additional challenges:

• Old vessels with limited space, which can make extended stays (over two months) uncomfortable.
• Food quality, which can vary depending on the region of operation. However, in most cases, requests are managed, and the contractor tries to meet the crew’s dietary needs.

The challenges we face are part of the nature of our work. The key to handling them is adaptability, both in interactions with the contractor and local authorities and in managing life onboard. Maintaining a professional, clear, and diplomatic approach helps overcome technical, bureaucratic, and logistical obstacles, ensuring the success of operations.

How do you collaborate with other departments within Oceans & Cables Ltd to ensure that purchasing activities align with the company’s overall objectives?

All departments at Oceans & Cables are closely interconnected to ensure an efficient and organised workflow. The operational process follows a well-defined structure, involving several interconnected phases:

1. Work Assignment
   • The process begins with a technical assessment and project allocation.
   • The individual responsible for the specific role is assigned.
2. Logistical Organisation
   • Management of travel and accommodation for the work period, both onboard the vessel and onshore.
   • Support during waiting periods before operations begin.
3. Technical and Documentation Support
   • Provision of necessary documentation for operational activities.
   • Continuous assistance throughout the project’s execution.
4. QHSE and Standardisation
   • Oceans ensures a safe and standardised service, guaranteeing quality and consistency across operations.
   • For this reason, an operational handbook has been developed, outlining key points common to all projects, ensuring a uniform service for purchasers.

To maintain a high-quality standard, we have implemented a series of procedures and formalities, including:

• Arrival notifications at the work site.
• Homecoming notifications, managed via pre-formatted email templates.
• Standardised templates for the DPR (Daily Progress Report) to ensure consistency in reporting.

Additionally, there is a strong focus on QHSE, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

All operations are supported by a remote assistance system, which provides continuous support for:

• Logistical matters.
• Technical and operational aspects.
• Document management.

What goals or initiatives are you looking forward to pursuing in your role over the next few years at Oceans & Cables Ltd?

The company has experienced steady growth over the years, with a strong focus on training and staff development. The company has invested both quantitatively and qualitatively, implementing:

• Continuous training and refresher courses to ensure ongoing professional development.
• Collaborations with industry experts, including university professors and professionals with direct field experience.

The strategic approach adopted has proven to be successful, allowing the company and its team to strengthen its market position and secure increasingly significant contracts with major clients in the industry.

The company not only provides internal technical training but also promotes the cultural and professional growth of its employees by encouraging further education.

Oceans & Cables operates in a constantly evolving market, with new growth opportunities driven by:

• Expansion into new sectors and technologies.
• The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into analysis and monitoring operations.
• A growing focus on cybersecurity, which is becoming increasingly crucial in a highly advanced technological landscape.

These developments open new scenarios, making continuous skills updates essential to effectively tackle future challenges.

On an individual level, the drive for professional growth is reflected in the desire to expand and deepen technical and theoretical knowledge. This is achieved through:

• Further university education, to consolidate advanced sector knowledge.
• Learning new roles and specialisations, with the goal of taking on increasingly strategic and specific positions.

Thanks to investments in human resources and the constant evolution of skills, the company is preparing to seize the opportunities offered by an expanding market, reinforcing its position and paving the way for new professional growth opportunities for its team.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Interview by Pierpaolo Barone, Purchasers’ Representative at Oceans & Cables Limited.

07.02.2025

On the 23^rd of January, Oceans & Cables held a successful plenary meeting, bringing together management and team members to review past achievements and discuss future plans. While many attended in person, some team members working onboard vessels or at project sites joined via video conference, ensuring full participation.

The event commenced with a registration and welcome coffee, setting a warm and engaging tone for the day. Director Charlene Sciberras delivered an opening speech, followed by an address from Director Aldo Monaca, both emphasising the company’s growth, challenges, and vision for the future.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation of Oceans & Cables’ ongoing projects and milestones achieved in 2024, alongside strategic plans and goals for 2025. Chief Technology Officer Alessandro Maiolino and Chief Human Resources Officer Ennio Ammatuna also delivered insightful speeches, sharing updates on technological advancements and workforce development within the company.

The meeting fostered an open dialogue, with ample time for questions and discussions. Every team member had the opportunity to share thoughts on their role, experiences, and aspirations within the company, creating an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere.

Following the formal discussions, a team-building activity added a fun and interactive element to the event, reinforcing teamwork among colleagues. The day concluded with a delightful lunch, allowing everyone to unwind and strengthen professional bonds in a relaxed setting.

The plenary meeting was a testament to the strong company culture at Oceans & Cables, highlighting its commitment to teamwork, innovation, and continuous growth. With clear objectives set for 2025, the team is motivated to achieve new milestones and maintain the company’s position as a leader in the industry.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

19.12.2024

Andrés Fígoli Pacheco, independently published book (30 July 2024), 158 p., ISBN-13 979-8332883187.

In the growing world of telecommunication infrastructure, submarine cables serve as the foundation of global connectivity, carrying nearly 99 % of transoceanic data traffic. Despite their critical role, the regulatory landscape governing these cables remains complex and, at times, fragmented. Andrés Fígoli Pacheco’s Legal and Regulatory Aspects of Telecommunication Submarine Cables stands out as a key book that clarifies these complex aspects. The book addresses the essential legal and regulatory challenges facing this critical infrastructure and offers practical solutions to enhance its security, resilience, and functionality.

Andrés Fígoli brings a wealth of experience to this topic. As the director of Fígoli Consulting, he provides specialized legal and regulatory advice on all aspects of subsea cable work. Mr. Fígoli’s academic background includes a law degree from the University of the Republic in Uruguay, earned in 2002, and a Master of Laws (LLM) from Northwestern University. His nearly 21 years of experience in submarine cable projects at a major wholesale telecommunications company, coupled with his role as Director and Member of the Executive Committee of the International Cable Protection Committee (2015–2023), lend him a deep and practical understanding of the subject matter.

Written with the intent of guiding cable operators, policymakers, legal professionals, and scholars, the book offers a comprehensive and accessible overview of the regulatory challenges and considerations surrounding submarine cables. Fígoli’s book serves as a practical guide, not merely a theoretical work, to help readers navigate the complex legal landscape of submarine cable operations. The author has gathered a collection of articles, many of which appeared in Submarine Telecoms Forum Magazine, and complemented these with in-depth examinations of court cases and specific rules from different jurisdictions. The book is structured into categories and sub-chapters, each focusing on distinct legal aspects such as ownership, installation, operation, and maintenance of submarine cables. This layout allows readers to easily find their specific areas of interest, making it both a reference guide and a holistic introduction to the field.

Fígoli’s book deals with several critical themes surrounding the legal and regulatory landscape of submarine cables, beginning with the urgent need to enhance the security and resilience of these infrastructures. He argues that the current international protection framework, rooted in an 1884 convention designed for telegraphy, is no longer fit for purpose. This outdated regulatory foundation, combined with the lack of coordinated international efforts, leaves submarine cables vulnerable to negligent damage, such as that caused by fishing or anchoring activities. Fígoli calls for countries to take immediate action to update their regulations to better protect these underwater assets. He suggests that governments, telecom regulators, and local navies should collaborate as part of a digital sovereignty strategy to safeguard these critical components of global connectivity. To further this cause, he proposes the development of a new international treaty, guided by the UN, to criminalize harmful activities targeting submarine cables – drawing parallels to existing international regulations in aviation and cyberspace.

The book also touches upon the intersection of geopolitics and business in the deployment of new submarine cables. Fígoli notes that some government strategies focus more on geopolitical objectives, such as establishing a country as a communications hub, rather than prioritizing the practical protection of cables from everyday threats. He emphasizes that countries aiming for digital sovereignty must diversify their suppliers of cable-laying and maintenance services to avoid over-reliance on any single provider, which could lead to vulnerabilities. While geopolitical concerns are important, Fígoli stresses that they should not overshadow the need for robust measures to address more traditional threats to cables, such as fishing activities and anchor dragging—still the leading causes of cable damage globally. He argues that these two perspectives, geopolitical strategy and practical risk management, are not mutually exclusive and must be balanced to ensure the security of submarine cables.

A major theme in the book is the growing dominance of Over-the-Top (OTT) players in the global bandwidth market. Fígoli discusses how these companies have come to control the major routes of global data traffic, raising concerns about oligopolistic tendencies. He points out that the current environment makes it challenging for new submarine infrastructure projects to proceed without OTT involvement, as their financial power and scale can easily overshadow the efforts of traditional telecom operators. The book critically examines the implications of this trend for competition and national digital sovereignty. Fígoli calls for more vigilant oversight from telecom and antitrust regulators to ensure a fair and competitive market, especially when it comes to forming submarine cable consortiums and negotiating long-term capacity lease agreements or Indefeasible Right to Use (IRU) agreements.

The complexity of contracts and regulations in the submarine cable sector is another area of focus. Fígoli highlights how legal, engineering, and sales teams within cable companies often struggle with the intricacies of drafting and negotiating agreements, such as cable landing agreements and the various provisions required by financial stakeholders. He describes how these challenges are exacerbated by the increasing interdependence of legal work, technical specifications, and commercial considerations. The book offers tools and strategies to help industry professionals navigate these complexities, reduce litigation risks, and achieve more balanced and secure agreements. It also addresses the evolving nature of litigation in this field, noting the rise of more sophisticated fraudulent schemes are emerging, involving actors like opportunistic landowners, local backhaul providers, or even fishermen who might exploit legal and regulatory gaps.

Fígoli looks ahead and talks about how the global submarine cable market might grow. He believes that new companies can still join as long as antitrust and telecom regulators keep the system safe from unfair business practices. He also advocates for the submarine cable industry to take part in maritime planning initiatives to ensure the coordinated and sustainable use of the seabed alongside other activities such as mining or fishing. He raises the idea of SMART cables, which integrate traditional telecom functions with marine scientific research. These cables offer additional benefits, such as early tsunami detection and enhanced cable protection measures. Fígoli views SMART cables as a paradigm shift for the industry but also emphasizes that they require a new regulatory framework to maximize their potential benefits while ensuring legal clarity and environmental sustainability.

A recurring theme throughout the book is the need to harmonize legal frameworks across regions to ensure the integrity of submarine cable networks. Fígoli argues that the fragmented legal systems currently governing these cables pose a significant risk to their stability and calls for a coordinated global effort to protect these critical infrastructures. He introduces three tests to assess the level of digital sovereignty in any given country, encouraging stakeholders to engage in open discussions aimed at improving policies and strategies. Additionally, the book explores Maritime Spatial Planning (MSP) as a tool for managing ocean activities in a sustainable way, balancing the need to protect submarine cables passing through Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) with respect for national rights and environmental concerns.

Overall, Fígoli’s book raises critical awareness about the environmental, legal, and competitive challenges facing the submarine cable industry. He critiques the practice of greenwashing, where superficial environmental measures are adopted without genuine impact, and calls for more transparent and meaningful sustainability practices. The book also provides practical recommendations for improving the legal frameworks governing submarine cables, from enhancing IRU agreements and Cable Supply Agreements (CSAs) to tackling antitrust concerns. It serves as both a call to action for stakeholders in the industry to engage in meaningful dialogue and a strategic guide for navigating the complexities of this critical infrastructure.

As the reliance on global digital connectivity continues to increase, the importance of the legal frameworks governing submarine cables cannot be overstated. Fígoli’s book provides a timely reminder of the necessity for robust, harmonised regulations that safeguard these vital infrastructures while facilitating innovation and international collaboration.

Article written by Aldo Monaca and Gioia Indelicato and published here: https://ihr.iho.int/articles/legal-and-regulatory-aspects-of-telecommunication-submarine-cables/.

17.12.2024

A decade of growth, a year of accomplishments.

This year was a particularly special milestone for Oceans & Cables as we proudly celebrated our 10th anniversary. A decade of hard work, innovation, and growth has brought us to where we are today, and it was a moment of reflection and pride for the entire team.

But beyond marking our 10-year anniversary, 2024 has been a year filled with meaningful progress and achievements. We embraced a host of work commitments, strengthened our connections with long-standing clients, and built relationships with new ones. The energy and optimism shared within our team and through our collaborations have been truly inspiring, making it a year filled with positivity.

Reflecting on the past year, it is clear that 2024 was not only about celebrating the past but also about paving the way for the future. From tackling challenging projects to adopting cutting-edge technological tools, we have continuously strived to improve and adapt. Each project brought its own lessons, enabling us to refine our expertise and deliver even greater value to our clients.

Innovation has been at the heart of our success. Leveraging new tools and technologies has allowed us to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry, ensuring we provide efficient and forward-thinking solutions for submarine cable installation and consultancy.

As we close this chapter of our 10th year, our gratitude extends to everyone who has been part of our journey, mainly our dedicated team, our trusted partners, and our loyal clients. Without their support and collaboration, our accomplishments would not have been possible.

Looking ahead, we are excited for the opportunities the future holds. With the same passion and dedication that have defined us for the past decade, Oceans & Cables is committed to continuing its legacy of excellence, innovation, and reliability in the years to come.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

28.10.2024

Ten years of Oceans & Cables Limited

In October 2014, Oceans & Cables Limited was founded with a clear mission: To deliver expert solutions in submarine cable installation and oceanographic services. Ten years later, we’re proud to celebrate this milestone with our dedicated team, a group of professionals who have been integral to our success.

Recently, we commemorated our tenth anniversary with a team dinner, where we reflected on our journey and shared our vision for the future. Speeches highlighted the company’s direction, evolving alongside advancements in submarine cable technology and the marine industries we serve. From telecom and offshore energy to marine construction and ocean research, Oceans & Cables has made a mark as a reliable partner, delivering solutions that push boundaries and meet industry needs.

The past ten years have been remarkable, thanks to our dedicated teams both inshore and offshore, as well as our clients who have trusted us to carry out complex projects with precision and reliability. As we celebrate our achievements, we’re looking ahead with excitement, ready to innovate and expand further into offshore renewables and continue supporting our clients in telecom, marine construction, and ocean research.

Here’s to the next decade of Oceans & Cables, where every project brings us closer to a brighter, sustainable future.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

01.10.2024

A Perspective from Oceans & Cables Limited

Last week, a significant joint statement was issued on the occasion of the 79th United Nations General Assembly by a coalition of nations, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, and the United Kingdom, among others. The statement, which focuses on the crucial role of undersea cable infrastructure in global communications and economic growth, carries immense importance for companies like Oceans & Cables Limited which specialise in submarine cable installation and consultancy services.

As the statement notes, “Undersea cables, together with other elements of the information and communications technology ecosystem, continue to transform the way we communicate and the way we live.” These cables, spanning oceans and connecting continents, form the backbone of the Internet, facilitating global data transmission with unparalleled capacity, low latency, and reliability. This is a reality we live and breathe at Oceans & Cables, where our mission is to ensure the secure, reliable, and resilient deployment of this critical infrastructure.

However, this growing reliance on undersea cables introduces national security risks, making it imperative to protect them from threats. As highlighted in the joint statement, “Protecting the security, resilience, and integrity of undersea cables is critical to global communications, economic growth, and development.” The security of these cables cannot be taken for granted, and the need for robust measures to safeguard them has never been more pressing. This is why at Oceans & Cables, we place a premium on adopting best practices and cutting-edge technology to ensure that the cables we deploy and maintain are resilient against any potential threats, whether they come from physical damage or cyber interference.

The principles outlined by the endorsers of this statement offer valuable guidance for the future of undersea cable infrastructure. Among these principles are:

• Designing cable infrastructure with “resilience, redundancy, and security in mind.”
• Promoting the “selection of secure and verifiable subsea cable providers for new cable projects.”
• Emphasising “closer government and industry coordination for supporting responsible undersea cable deployment, maintenance, and repair.”
• Encouraging “alternative submarine cable routes with a view to improving resilience of the global cables network.”

These points reflect our company’s core values at Oceans & Cables. Our work in the submarine cable sector is deeply tied to these global standards and best practices, and this joint statement serves as a clear signal that we are heading in the right direction. In addition, the call for increased cooperation between governments and private industry to ensure secure and resilient cable networks resonates with our approach.

We encourage other stakeholders in the submarine cable industry to follow these principles, as endorsed by the joint statement. Collaboration is the key to ensuring a secure and resilient global communications network, and it is only through united efforts that we can safeguard this critical infrastructure. At Oceans & Cables, we stand ready to play our part in creating a secure, interconnected world, one cable at a time.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

20.08.2024

Safeguarding the Arteries of Global Connectivity

In our hyper-connected world, most global data transmission relies on submarine cables. These undersea networks are the backbone of the Internet, enabling everything from international financial transactions to streaming services. Yet, despite their importance, submarine cables face significant security threats that can disrupt global communications, economies, and even national security. As a leading expert in submarine cable installation and services, Oceans & Cables Ltd understands the gravity of these risks and the critical need for robust security measures.

Submarine cables are not just vital for the telecom industry; they also support the operations of the offshore energy industry, offshore wind industry, marine construction sector, and ocean research sector. These industries depend on the reliability and functionality of these cables, making their security paramount. Submarine cables face a variety of security threats that can be broadly categorised into natural and human-made risks such as physical damage, deliberate sabotage, cybersecurity threats and geopolitical risks.

At Oceans & Cables, we recognise that the security of submarine cables is not just about preventing physical damage but also about ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the data they carry.

Submarine cables are the unseen arteries of global connectivity, and their security is of paramount importance. With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and the growing threats they face, it is essential to prioritise the protection of these critical assets.

As we continue to expand our services into new areas like offshore renewable energy, our commitment to innovation, reliability, and security remains unwavering. We are here to safeguard the future of global communication and connectivity, ensuring that these vital infrastructures remain resilient and secure in the face of evolving challenges.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

25.07.2024

Oceans & Cables, a leading submarine cable consultancy and ocean services company, is proud to announce its membership in the Association of Offshore Renewable Energies (AERO). This significant partnership underscores Oceans & Cables’ commitment to advancing offshore renewable energy development and contributing to the offshore renewable energy sector.

The Association of Offshore Renewable Energies (AERO) is dedicated to promoting the development of offshore renewable energies. AERO’s mission is to be established as a leading player in the offshore renewable energy industry by fostering job creation, technological innovation, and local community engagement. The organisation advocates for a stable and transparent regulatory framework to support the growth of installed capacity and the development of a robust supply chain for the offshore renewable energy sector.

Joining AERO aligns perfectly with Oceans & Cables’ strategic vision of contributing to the global energy transition and sustainable development. As a member of AERO, Oceans & Cables will actively collaborate with industry stakeholders, communities, and educational institutions to promote offshore renewable energy projects. This partnership will facilitate the creation of jobs, economic development of coastal areas, and technological advancements, all while ensuring environmental protection and sustainability.

“We are thrilled to join AERO and contribute to the development of offshore renewable energies in Italy,” said Aldo Monaca, Director of Oceans & Cables Limited. “This membership marks a significant milestone for our company, as it allows us to leverage our expertise and become a leader in the offshore renewable energy sector. We look forward to working with AERO and its members to drive innovation and create lasting positive impacts on the environment and local communities.”

Oceans & Cables is excited about the opportunities this membership brings and is committed to playing a pivotal role in advancing offshore renewable energy. The company looks forward to contributing to AERO’s initiatives and working towards a sustainable and prosperous future for the offshore renewable energy sector.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.

09.07.2024

Today’s article tackles the topic of geopolitics and submarine cables. In an international situation of increasing security risks to these critical infrastructures, each and every operator in the industry must be aware of the strategic, economic, and political value of submarine cables to states and companies. Handling with extreme caution any sensitive information about the positioning of such infrastructure, such as the ability to develop an analysis about the most profitable routes in terms of protection from sabotage and espionage threats are skills more necessary than ever for operators.

The ability to represent the full interest of investing companies in a cable-laying project goes through the ability to ensure the best solutions in order to avoid man-made damage, the number one threat to cable security. This sector is finally the subject of great interest from institutions, which are intent on ensuring the operations and safety of these critical infrastructures as a primary objective.

The goal of Oceans & Cables, through the work of its practitioners, is to be a firm reference point for companies in implementing consistent protection practices. The company also aims to set up a fruitful dialogue with institutions to translate political will to ensure greater cable protection into practice. The technical knowledge of operators is a valuable resource that Oceans & Cables is intent on further enhancing by making operators more aware of their role in relation to today’s geopolitical dynamics specific to the industry. Operators who are more aware of the importance of their role will produce more thoughtful choices for the laying projects that Oceans & Cables is engaged with every day. To this, our plans include putting up this important topic in each and every training given to our operators in the client rep subsea cable installation.

This article was written by Dr Gabriele Olivieri, a collaborator of Oceans & Cables. Dr Olivieri is a geopolitical and international security specialist who brings experiences through his studies and scholarships focused on issues related to the security of critical infrastructures in terrestrial and underwater environments.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

25.06.2024

The 21^st of June marked the celebration of World Hydrography Day. For this yearly celebration, the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) issues on a yearly basis a theme. This year’s theme was “Hydrographic Information – Enhancing Safety, Efficiency and Sustainability in Marine Activities”. The World Hydrography Day is a very important date and is designed to raise awareness about hydrography and how it plays a role in improved knowledge of the seas and oceans.

To celebrate this day, Director Charlene Sciberras attended an event organised by the Italian Hydrography Society (IHS) in Acireale (Sicily), Italy, following the theme issued by IHO. Distinguished guests addressed the attendees on various topics in relation to this years’ theme. The event had the patronage of the IHO and the Istituto Idrografico della Marina di Genova. The aim was to raise public awareness and understanding of the critical role hydrography and hydrographers play in achieving a sustainable and harmonious relationship with our oceans.

The conference agenda featured interesting presentations and valuable insights from leading hydrographic professionals. It explored varies interesting topics such as the contribution of offshore wind to environmental knowledge and the energy transition, application of standards for hydrographic surveys, tools for the design and development of floating wind farms, approaches to observing of the deep marine environment for scientific purposes and more.

Hydrography is crucial for all sea-related activities. It is a branch of applied sciences focused on measuring and describing the physical features of oceans, seas, coastal areas, lakes, and rivers, as well as predicting their changes over time. The primary goal is to ensure safe navigation and support various marine activities such as economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.

Besides promoting safe and efficient ship navigation, hydrography is essential for numerous sea-related activities, including resource exploitation, environmental protection and management, marine spatial data infrastructures, boating, maritime defense and security, tsunami flood and inundation modelling, coastal zone management, tourism, and marine science. This definition of hydrography is given by the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO).

To achieve mastery in underwater environments, it is essential to have comprehensive hydrospatial data from the seabed to the surface. This vital information is provided by the field of hydrography, guided by skilled hydrographers. Here at Oceans & Cables, as our reliance on marine environments continues to grow, the importance of hydrography in ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable use of these vital resources cannot be overstated.

Oceans & Cables Limited is a company based in Malta, founded in 2014, operating in the submarine cable industry and related technical services, working with various industries and markets globally. Our specialisation is in the consultancy, planning and implementation of the submarine cable industry for governmental entities, commercial corporations, and offshore renewable energy companies around the world. For more information about Oceans & Cables, please contact us on info@oceanscables.com.

Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, Director at Oceans & Cables Limited.