The European Commission is stepping up efforts to secure Europe’s submarine data cables, which carry 99% of intercontinental internet traffic, by introducing a Cable Security Toolbox and a list of Cable Projects of European Interest (CPEIs). These measures are part of the EU Action Plan on Cable Security, aimed at preventing intentional damage, sabotage, and other threats to this critical infrastructure.

The Cable Security Toolbox includes six strategic and four technical measures to enhance resilience, informed by a 2025 risk assessment identifying vulnerabilities and threats. The 13 CPEIs outline projects over three five-year phases to strengthen cable infrastructure across the EU.

To support these initiatives, the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) – Digital Work Programme has been amended to allocate €347 million to strategic projects. Funding includes:

• €20 million for rapid-response cable repair modules,

• €60 million in 2026 for repair capacity,

• €20 million for SMART cable systems with sensors for real-time monitoring, and

• €267 million across 2026–2027 to fund CPEIs.

The first pilot focuses on the Baltic Sea, reflecting increased cable disruptions in recent years. Eligible applicants are public entities with emergency response mandates, such as civil protection agencies, coastguards, and national navies.

This initiative builds on prior EU recommendations, the establishment of a Submarine Cable Infrastructure Expert Group, and the 2025 risk assessment, ensuring Europe is better prepared to prevent and respond to threats to its vital digital backbone.