Riga: In a significant move to enhance the security of Europe’s submarine cable infrastructures, the European Commission has unveiled new funding opportunities totaling £20 million. The initiative, introduced by Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, aims to protect these critical infrastructures that serve as digital lifelines for Europe. The funding is part of the Digital Europe Programme and will focus on the creation of regional cable hubs and stress-testing the resilience of undersea cable infrastructures. The European Cybersecurity Competence Centre, which manages cybersecurity funds, is issuing a £10 million call for establishing regional cable hubs, with the Nordic-Baltic region hosting the first pilot hub.
According to Cyprus News Agency, an additional £10 million call under the Cyber Solidarity Act has been opened to enhance the preparedness and testing of critical infrastructure. Executive Vice-President Virkkunen emphasized the significance of these measures, stating that they will bolster the resilience of Europe’s submarine cable networks. The newly published Cables Expert Group report plays a crucial role by mapping Europe’s cable infrastructure and identifying key risks. This report is part of the EU Action Plan on Cable Security, which was adopted in February 2025 and addresses prevention, detection, response, recovery, and deterrence.
To date, the EU has invested £420 million through the Connecting Europe Facility Digital in 51 Digital Global Gateway projects to support submarine cables, with more projects on the horizon. This investment underscores the EU’s commitment to maintaining reliable digital connectivity across the continent.