A new report warns that the aging global fleet of submarine cable repair ships threatens to undermine the rapid growth in subsea cable deployment expected through 2040. With 1.6 million kilometres of new cable set to be laid in the next 15 years, the industry must invest $3 billion to upgrade its aging repair fleet and avoid service disruptions.
As demand for internet connectivity surges, so does the need for robust subsea cable infrastructure. However, the SubOptic Association warns that the aging fleet of cable repair ships could become a major bottleneck. A study by TeleGeography and Infra-Analytics reveals the mismatch between growing cable deployments and stagnant maintenance capabilities.
Key Findings from the Study:
- 48% growth in deployed cable kilometers forecasted by 2040.
- 36% increase in annual cable repairs expected.
- 1.6 million km of new cables to be installed, double the volume being retired.
- 47% of repair vessels will be near or past their 40-year lifespan by 2040.
This aging fleet could severely impact service reliability, especially in regions like the southwest and northwest Pacific, where cable faults are more frequent.
Current Maintenance Model Under Pressure
The current zone-based cable maintenance system—based on consortium or private agreements—is now under scrutiny. A recent survey shows:
- 70% of maintenance providers and
- 61% of cable owners doubt the system’s viability over the next 15 years.
Compounding the challenge are geopolitical tensions, security concerns, and regulatory oversight, which add layers of complexity to maintaining global subsea networks.
Investment Gap & Market Constraints
While cable systems receive long-term capital, investments in maintenance ships remain sporadic and insufficient. High capital costs, uncertain market returns, and rigid maintenance contracts have led many operators to rely on second-hand vessels, further stressing the system.
Call for Innovation and Flexible Models
The report emphasizes that no one-size-fits-all solution exists. Instead, it recommends:
- Innovative models like hybrid commercial systems,
- Asset-based competition, and
- Collaborative tendering to close gaps in underserved regions like the Southern Pacific and Indian Ocean.
A flexible approach is crucial for addressing evolving stakeholder interests and the changing geopolitical landscape.
