Fourth Taiwan-Matsu undersea cable network goes online

台灣－馬祖第4條海底電纜網路正式啟用

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The Ministry of Digital Affairs announced on Friday that the fourth Taiwan-Matsu undersea cable network is now operational.

The Ministry of Digital Affairs held the ceremony near Matsu Nangan Airport. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), Digital Minister Lin Yi-jing (林宜敬), and local officials joined the event.

The digital ministry said that the cable uses a double-layered design and is buried 2.5 meters underground for added protection. Lin said that existing cables have malfunctioned seven to eight times per year, often due to ship anchors and drag nets.

The digital ministry's cyber resilience Director-General Niu Hsin-Jen (牛信仁) said the NT$1.4 billion (US$44 million) cable has increased the transmission capacity to 1.9 terabytes per second. He added that backups include cable networks 2 and 3 as well as satellites.

Lin said the ministry has broadened microwave transmissions, satellite coverage, and AI recognition to detect and warn nearby vessels. He noted that the upgrades help cables withstand extreme weather and sabotage.

Cho said the new cable network connects Dongyin, Xigu, and Nangan townships with Taiwan. He noted that the government plans to add additional satellites and microwave internet installations to keep residents connected.

Cho said the cable would improve access to utilities and balance the country's standard of living. He added that aside from technical issues, the government will make regulatory reforms to prosecute intrusions.

Cho also highlighted Chunghwa Telecom's contributions to creating a grid connecting the sea, land, and air. He noted that infrastructure is only the foundation, as training is also required to harness the tools.