NEC East Micronesia Submarine Cable Project Expands Regional Connectivity
NEC Corporation signed a contract with the East Micronesia Cable System (EMCS) consortium to build a 2,250‑kilometer submarine cable network. The NEC East Micronesia Submarine Cable Project will link four islands across the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), Kiribati, and Nauru, improving internet connectivity throughout the Pacific.
Strengthening Digital Links Across the Pacific
The undersea cable, valued at about US $95 million, will connect Kosrae in the FSM, Tarawa in Kiribati, and Nauru with an existing landing point in Pohnpei. The consortium includes FSM Telecommunications Cable Corp. (FSMTCC), BwebwerikiNet Ltd. of Kiribati, and Nauru Fibre Cable Corp. of Nauru.
This new link will strengthen ties between the island nations and expand access to high‑speed internet across the Indo‑Pacific.
Global Support for Regional Development
The governments of Australia, Japan, and the United States are funding the project through international grants. Their goal is to enhance secure digital infrastructure while promoting open and reliable communications across the region.
According to the partners, upcoming steps include route surveys, design finalization, and manufacturing of the cable. The project is expected to reach completion in 2025.
Aligning with Indo‑Pacific Connectivity Goals
This announcement follows a statement from the Quad alliance—Japan, the U.S., Australia, and India—which stressed the importance of undersea cables as a foundation for modern communications. The U.S. State Department reaffirmed that “secure and resilient digital connectivity has never been more important,” noting this project’s role in linking the Pacific region.
Expanding Access for More Pacific Communities
Once completed, the cable will connect over 100,000 residents across the three island countries. Gordon Segal, CEO of FSMTCC, said the project will finally bring Kosrae, the last FSM state without submarine cable access, online. He noted that improved connectivity will help citizens reach essential digital services and information more easily.
NEC Advances Technology for Island Nations
Atsushi Kuwahara, Managing Director of NEC’s Submarine Network Division, said the company is honored to support this effort. “NEC’s experience in optical submarine cable technology helps island nations strengthen communications and improve quality of life,” he explained.
With this project, NEC continues to lead in innovation, ensuring Pacific communities benefit from faster, more reliable digital connections. For more details, visit NEC’s Submarine Networks page.
