PRESS RELEASE

Prima and Alcatel Submarine Networks Announce the World’s First SMART Cable Project Connecting Vanuatu and New Caledonia, Combining Telecommunications and Scientific Observation

Hawaii, USA 
– January 23, 2024

In a significant move to enhance digital connectivity and seismic monitoring in the Pacific region, Prima, in collaboration with Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN), is delighted to announce the signing of a contract for an unprecedented project: the establishment of the first SMART(1) cable system. OMS will be responsible for the marine installation of this system, which is set to be deployed and operational in 2026.

This groundbreaking project is set to provide not only a supplementary telecom cable to New Caledonia, extending to Australia and Fiji, but also a vital component in environmental monitoring. The integration of four advanced Climate Change Nodes (CC Nodes) within this submarine cable system will facilitate real-time monitoring of seismic activities and efficient tsunami detection, particularly in the seismically volatile New Hebrides Trench.

This innovative technology promises to revolutionize warning systems throughout the Pacific, enhancing security and preparedness against natural disasters.

(1) Science Monitoring And Reliable Telecommunications

Prima would like to extend its heartfelt thanks to key supporters of this project :
French Government : For their steadfast support in this venture, showing unwavering commitment and encouragement.
Government of Vanuatu : For entrusting Prima with the implementation of this innovative hybrid cable, a gesture that signifies trust and collaboration.
OPT NC : For their invaluable support, especially in relation to the Lifou landing, which has been pivotal in advancing the project.

The announcement of this collaboration marks a significant moment at the prestigious PTC conference. ASN is thrilled and honored to be a part of such a transformative project. ASN also extend its appreciation to the SMART Joint Task Force (JTF), whose consistent support and expertise have been crucial in realizing this ambitious project.

More than just an infrastructural advancement, this SMART cable project symbolizes the strength of international collaboration in addressing global challenges. By merging telecommunications with environmental monitoring technologies, this endeavor will substantially enhance the safety, connectivity, and scientific insight of the Pacific region.

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Alain Biston

Alain Biston

President & CEO

Alain has been working for more than 25 years in telecoms, with Nortel, then Alcatel-Lucent / Nokia, holding management and leadership positions in R&D, Product Line, Industrial Operations, Sales & Marketing, Business Unit P&L accountability.

He brings to ASN his thorough knowledge of the telecoms industry, his extensive international management background with several postings overseas, and his field-proven customer-facing acumen.

Since 2016, as a Nokia executive, Alain has been Senior VP Customer Operations End2End and until now Senior Vice President in charge of Mobile Network business management.

Alain holds a degree in Information Technology from INSA, Rennes, France. He was also honored with the National Order of Merit in 2006 from the French Minister of Industry.