New land-based data link between Sweden and Finland strengthens security in the Nordic Region

Recently, we have seen increased challenges for the digital infrastructure, with incidents where submarine cables have broken or been destroyed. To counteract this vulnerability, GlobalConnect has now completed a new land-based data communication connection between Sweden and Finland.

The new connection comprises three fiber optic cables between Sweden and Finland and is part of GlobalConnect's 2600-kilometer-long digital infrastructure project that starts in Berlin and extends to Finland. The aim of the project is to create a more resilient digital environment in the Nordic region by reducing vulnerabilities and expanding capacity for data traffic. The new interconnection between the two countries' digital infrastructure offers alternative routes for data traffic, thereby strengthening digital security and resilience.

"By building more and stronger connections, we reduce the vulnerability of the network and strengthen the digital infrastructure. This is an important part of our work to create a resilient and future-proof digital environment in the Nordic region," says Pär Jansson, Head of International Fiber Expansion at GlobalConnect.

Contribution to security and regional development
For Sweden, the connection means a strengthened regional connection that creates conditions for new business investments, for data centers. In Finland, the project complements GlobalConnect's previous investments in the Helsinki region, where an additional 260 kilometers of new fiber network will be built as part of a larger investment of EUR 500 million.

"This connection is crucial for strengthening the region's digital security and capacity, while enabling continued economic growth," says Helena Bergstrand, CEO of GlobalConnect Finland.

Positioning the Nordic region as a global data hub
With investments like this, the Nordic region is consolidating its role as a global hub for data communications. The region already has unique conditions catering to the data center industry, and according to forecasts, more than half of Europe's investments in data centers are expected to take place in the Nordic region in the coming years.

"The Nordic region is uniquely positioned to handle the increasing demand for data capacity, and we are proud to contribute to this development," Jansson adds.

The project in brief
Geography: Connects Sweden and Finland, part of a longer link from Berlin.
Timing: Completed in December 2024.
Capacity: Up to 3 petabits per second, equivalent to all data traffic in the Nordic region today.
Investment: Approximately SEK 75 million.