Orange expands Africa's digital backbone with new cable ships investment

By Nhlanhla Muthe

Orange Marine’s new generation of cable ships will boost the resilience of Africa’s undersea networks, reinforcing the continent’s place in the global digital economy while cutting emissions by 20%.

Orange Marine, the submarine cable subsidiary of global telecoms giant Orange, has announced the construction of two next-generation cable ships aimed at securing and strengthening digital infrastructure across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East (EMEA).

The investment highlights Orange’s expanding role as a key enabler of Africa’s digital future. As the second-largest mobile operator on the continent, Orange currently serves over 140 million customers in 18 African countries, providing essential connectivity that powers economies, businesses and digital inclusion.

Michaël Trabbia, CEO of Orange Wholesale stressed that with over 450 000 kilometers of undersea cables connecting all continents, this investment ensures the resilience and security of global internet traffic, including Africa’s fast-growing data routes. “It demonstrates our confidence in Orange Marine’s prospects and the expertise of its teams,” he said.

The two new vessels, scheduled for delivery in 2028 and 2029, will replace the aging Léon Thévenin, currently based in South Africa, and the Antonio Meucci in Italy. They will operate across the Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, Red Sea and North Sea, ensuring continued maintenance and expansion of the region’s critical submarine cable networks.

According to Didier Dillard, President of Orange Marine and Elettra TLC, the aging of the global cable ship fleet is a major concern for the industry. “These new ships will give Orange Marine and Elettra the most modern and environmentally efficient fleet in the world — serving all our clients globally, with a reduced carbon footprint,” he stated.

The new ships will feature hybrid diesel-electric systems, 25% fuel savings through optimised hull design, and the ability to connect to shore power in port, cutting carbon emissions by 20%. Each vessel will also carry an Orange-designed underwater robot capable of inspecting and burying cables with precision and safety.

For Africa, this guarantees reliable undersea cables form the backbone of the continent’s internet connectivity, enabling everything from fintech innovation and e-commerce to education and digital government. By modernising its fleet, Orange strengthens Africa’s position in the global digital economy while ensuring its networks remain secure and future-ready.