Europe’s Undersea Cables Get a Security Makeover

EU security push sparks a wave of upgrades in Europe’s vital subsea cable networks.

7 Apr 2025

Europe’s underwater arteries are about to be reinforced. On February 21st the European Union released its Action Plan on Cable Security, a non-binding blueprint aimed at protecting the subsea fibre-optic and power cables that keep Europe connected and powered. Though it carries no legal force, it complements the NIS 2 and CER directives, reflecting growing unease over cyberattacks and physical sabotage.

Cable makers are already responding. Prysmian, Nexans and NKT, three of the sector’s biggest firms, are rolling out advanced monitoring tools and quicker repair systems. These moves fit neatly with the EU’s recommendations but also reflect a broader shift as companies adapt to rising security demands and surging appetite for reliable infrastructure. Analysts expect a wave of high-value projects as telecoms operators and energy providers scramble to upgrade Europe’s submerged lifelines.

“The Action Plan offers a clear direction for industry priorities,” says a European infrastructure analyst. “We are seeing accelerated investment in resilience and faster adoption of next-generation cable technologies.”

The roadmap promotes better reporting of incidents, more rigorous risk assessments and greater EU-level oversight. Firms seen to be proactive may enjoy smoother regulatory treatment and possibly tap into public funding.

Yet not everyone is cheering. Smaller companies warn that steep compliance costs could push them out of the market, reducing competition. For now the direction of travel is clear: cable resilience is no longer a back-office concern but a central pillar of Europe’s infrastructure strategy.

The challenge will be to modernise while keeping the market open and competitive.