Google has launched the South Pacific Connect initiative to strengthen digital connectivity and resilience across the Pacific. The project will deploy two new transpacific subsea cables, Honomoana and Tabua, to improve communications between the United States, Australia, Fiji, and French Polynesia.
Developed in partnership with Fiji International Telecommunications, the Office of Posts and Telecommunications of French Polynesia, APTelecom, and Vocus Group, the initiative responds to growing concerns about subsea cable security and the need for more robust infrastructure in the region.
Improving resiliency
A key element of South Pacific Connect is the construction of multiple, diverse cable landing stations in Fiji and French Polynesia that will be tied together by an interlink cable. This ring topology—linking Australia, Fiji, and French Polynesia—will increase redundancy and provide essential backup routing in the event of physical damage, sabotage, or natural disasters, improving overall network reliability for island nations vulnerable to such disruptions.
Honomoana and Tabua
Honomoana, whose name derives from Polynesian words meaning “link” and “ocean,” will extend connectivity from the United States and Australia to French Polynesia. Tabua, named after a sacred Fijian artefact, will connect the United States and Australia to Fiji. Together, these cables are expected to significantly boost capacity and reduce latency for users across the Pacific Islands and neighboring regions.
Shared vision
Regional leaders have welcomed the project as a strategic advancement for digital development. Sitiveni Rabuka, Prime Minister of Fiji, highlighted the partnership with Google as a major step toward strengthening digital connectivity and resilience. He noted the shared goal of building a more interconnected and secure digital future for Fiji and the wider Pacific, with long-term benefits for economic growth, skills development, and community advancement.
Moetai Brotherson, President of French Polynesia, also praised the initiative and underscored the importance of the digital economy for the territory. He described the collaboration with Google as a strong fit for French Polynesia’s priorities in using digital technology as a core pillar of economic and social development.
Empowering communities and businesses
Beyond technical improvements, the new subsea cables have significant social and economic implications. More affordable, reliable internet access supports small businesses, enables better delivery of services, and creates opportunities for remote work, education, and upskilling. Greater bandwidth and lower latency can help local enterprises scale, improve customer experiences, and participate in broader digital markets.
The South Pacific Connect initiative aims to bridge digital divides across the region by delivering modern infrastructure and fostering collaborative innovation. By enhancing connectivity and building resilient networks, the project seeks to support sustainable economic development and expand digital opportunities for communities across the Pacific.
(Image Credit: Google Cloud)
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