Deadline: 08-Oct-2026
The European Commission is inviting applications for a pilot project to explore how situational data can improve the security and resilience of submarine cable networks. The project will examine private-sector data access, data integration, interoperability, and partnership models to strengthen Regional Cable Hubs under the EU Action Plan on Cable Security.
Overview of the European Commission Submarine Cable Security Pilot Project
The European Commission is seeking proposals for a pilot project focused on improving submarine cable security through better access, integration, and use of situational data.
Submarine cables are critical infrastructure that support global digital connectivity, including internet services, telecommunications, and data exchange. Protecting these systems requires improved awareness of potential risks such as accidental damage, environmental threats, and security incidents.
The project aims to understand how existing data sources can be used more effectively to improve monitoring, coordination, and response capabilities.
Purpose of the Initiative
The main objective of this initiative is to assess how situational awareness data can support the protection of submarine cables.
The project will explore:
- How private-sector data can be accessed and shared.
- How different data sources can be combined.
- How Regional Cable Hubs can use integrated information.
- How partnerships between public and private actors can be developed.
The initiative supports the objectives of the EU Action Plan on Cable Security and contributes to strengthening digital infrastructure resilience.
Key Focus Areas
The project focuses on several important areas related to submarine cable protection.
Submarine Cable Security
The initiative addresses challenges related to protecting submarine cable systems from:
- Physical damage.
- Maritime activities.
- Security threats.
- Operational risks.
- Environmental hazards.
Situational Awareness and Data Access
Situational awareness refers to the ability to collect, analyse, and understand information about potential threats and activities affecting submarine cables.
Relevant data sources may include:
- Sensor feeds.
- Maritime surveillance information.
- Satellite surveillance data.
- Other operational monitoring data.
Private-Sector Data Integration
Many important datasets are managed by private operators and organisations.
The project will examine:
- Conditions for accessing private-sector data.
- Data-sharing challenges.
- Governance requirements.
- Legal and operational barriers.
Regional Cable Hubs
The project will support the development of Regional Cable Hubs, which are intended to improve coordination and information exchange related to submarine cable security.
The initiative will assess:
- How data can be integrated into Regional Cable Hubs.
- How different information sources can work together.
- How improved data access can strengthen decision-making.
Data Fusion and Interoperability
The project will study technical challenges related to combining different data sources.
Key areas include:
- Data interoperability.
- Data quality assessment.
- Data fusion methods.
- Compatibility between systems.
- Reliability of generated situational awareness.
Project Activities
The selected project will conduct analytical work and pilot demonstrations in non-operational environments.
Main activities include:
Mapping Available Situational Data
The project will identify:
- Types of data available from private actors.
- Existing data sources relevant to cable security.
- Data access conditions.
- Limitations and gaps.
Assessing Data Integration Feasibility
The project will evaluate:
- Whether private-sector data can be integrated into Regional Cable Hubs.
- Technical requirements for integration.
- Governance and operational considerations.
Analysing Data Fusion Challenges
The project will examine:
- How multiple datasets can be combined.
- Accuracy and reliability issues.
- Challenges in creating useful security information.
Conducting Pilot Demonstrations
The initiative will develop:
- Pilot activities.
- Proof-of-concept demonstrations.
- Testing approaches for data-sharing models.
These demonstrations will help evaluate practical solutions before wider implementation.
Developing Partnership Models
The project will create recommendations for:
- Public-private cooperation.
- Data-sharing agreements.
- Long-term collaboration models.
- Sustainable approaches for submarine cable security.
Funding Information
The indicative funding available for this project is:
€3,940,000
The expected project duration is:
18 months
Other project durations may also be considered if justified.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must be:
- Legal entities.
- Public bodies or private organisations.
- Established in eligible countries.
Applicants may include organisations working in areas such as:
- Digital infrastructure.
- Maritime security.
- Data management.
- Telecommunications.
- Technology development.
- Research and innovation.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be established in:
- European Union Member States.
- Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) linked to EU Member States.
- European Economic Area (EEA) countries, including:
Why It Matters
Submarine cables are essential components of the global digital ecosystem.
Improving submarine cable security helps to:
- Protect internet connectivity.
- Strengthen digital resilience.
- Improve crisis response.
- Support secure communication networks.
- Enhance cooperation between public authorities and private operators.
Better access to reliable situational data can help stakeholders identify risks earlier and respond more effectively.
How to Apply
Applicants should follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm that:
- The organisation is a legal entity.
- The organisation is established in an eligible country.
- The proposed project aligns with submarine cable security objectives.
Step 2: Develop a Project Proposal
The proposal should explain:
- The project objectives.
- Data sources and integration approach.
- Pilot activities.
- Expected outcomes.
- Partnership strategy.
Step 3: Address Key Technical Areas
Applicants should demonstrate understanding of:
- Data access challenges.
- Interoperability requirements.
- Situational awareness development.
- Regional Cable Hub integration.
Step 4: Submit Application
Applicants must submit their proposal according to the European Commission funding requirements and application procedures.
Common Mistakes and Application Tips
Common Mistakes
Applicants should avoid:
- Proposing solutions without practical testing plans.
- Ignoring data governance challenges.
- Failing to explain partnership approaches.
- Not addressing interoperability issues.
- Providing unclear project outcomes.
Application Tips
A strong proposal should:
- Clearly explain how data improves submarine cable security.
- Include realistic pilot activities.
- Demonstrate technical and operational feasibility.
- Highlight collaboration between public and private stakeholders.
- Explain how results can support future security frameworks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of this European Commission project?
The project aims to assess how situational data can improve submarine cable security and support better threat awareness.
What types of data will the project examine?
The project may examine sensor feeds, maritime surveillance data, satellite surveillance information, and other relevant situational data.
What are Regional Cable Hubs?
Regional Cable Hubs are coordination structures designed to improve information sharing and cooperation for submarine cable security.
How much funding is available?
The indicative funding available is €3,940,000.
How long will the project last?
The expected duration is 18 months, although alternative durations may be considered.
Who can apply?
Legal entities, including public and private organisations established in eligible EU or EEA countries, can apply.
Why is data integration important for submarine cable security?
Integrating different data sources helps create stronger situational awareness, enabling earlier identification of risks and improved response coordination.
Conclusion
The European Commission’s Pilot Project on Submarine Cable Security Data Access and Situational Awareness aims to strengthen the protection of critical digital infrastructure through improved data access, integration, and cooperation. By testing practical approaches and developing partnership models, the initiative will support more secure and resilient submarine cable networks across Europe and partner regions.
For more information, visit European Commission.