The companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to build a submarine fibre optic cable and will work with Alcatel Submarine Networks who will take the lead on project design and installation.
The planned cable system will run from Japan, via Northwest Passage to Europe with landings in Alaska and the Canadian Arctic. European landings are planned in Norway, Finland and Ireland.
Ari-Jussi Knaapila (pictured) CEO of Cinia said: “There is an increasing demand for secure and fast international connectivity with new diverse routes.
“Spanning three of the world’s largest internet adopting continents the Far North Fiber will be a true global venture.”
The 14,000km cable system will reduce the optical distance between Asia and Europe, minimising signal latency.
In Asia, the main gateway for the cable system will be through Japan.
Jun Murai, professor at Keio University and special adviser to the Japanese Cabinet said: "The Arctic connection between Japan and northern Europe has long been a shared passion of Japan and Cinia, as the diversity of international connections is vital to Japan.
“Prime Minister Kishida has announced a new digital vision including a plan to build new landing points around the island country.
“My long-term plan about Hokkaido being a natural gateway to North and East is becoming reality.”
The cable is aiming to be ready for service by the end of 2026 and will cost around $1.15 billion.
