Greece is dynamically evolving into a strategic hub for the landing of international submarine fiber optic systems, enhancing both international connectivity and the resilience of domestic networks. The development of these infrastructures is a critical step for the digital economy, communication security, and equal access for all citizens to modern services.
Submarine cables carry the majority of global internet traffic. Through them, data supporting services such as telecommunications, cloud, applications, and international transactions are transmitted. Strengthening Greece's presence in this network decisively contributes to providing faster and more reliable connectivity for citizens and businesses, enhances digital security and the strategic autonomy of the country, and creates significant opportunities for attracting investments and developing new jobs in the technology sector.
Today, infrastructures are operating and being planned that make Greece a central digital hub for Southeastern Europe and the Mediterranean. Indicatively:
• India-Europe-Xpress (IEX): One of the largest cable systems worldwide, connecting India with Europe via Crete
• Blue & Raman Systems: A project by Google and partners, connecting Italy, Greece, and Israel
• East Med Corridor: Collaboration between Greek and international entities for connection with the Middle East
• GreenMed & Andromeda: New networks that strengthen Greece's position as a regional hub
Beyond international connections, the General Secretariat of Telecommunications and Post is implementing actions to eliminate the digital divide between islands and the mainland. Greece has over 100 inhabited islands, many of which do not have reliable backhaul connections, limiting access to fast broadband services and 5G networks.
Crete is emerging as a key landing point for international cable systems, with stations in Heraklion, Chania, Tympaki, and Sitia. By 2030, the capacity of cables reaching the country is expected to exceed 3,000 Tbps, from less than 500 Tbps in 2023, strengthening Greece's position as a central digital hub in the Mediterranean.
At the same time, the country is investing in the digital integration of island Greece. Already, more than 80 submarine cables connect the Greek islands, while the SEA-SPINE project is being implemented, a strategic initiative that will significantly improve broadband and communication security in the Aegean. The project includes:
• 7 new submarine links totaling 563 kilometers
• 231 kilometers of terrestrial network to connect 11 islands (Amorgos, Astypalaia, Kos, Sifnos, Folegandros, Euboea, Chios, Lesbos, Lemnos, Thasos, Skyros)
• A budget of 24 million euros, co-financed by the European program Connecting Europe Facility (CEF)
This initiative is a pivotal step for lifting digital isolation, enhancing social and territorial cohesion, and creating new development opportunities in island areas.