Sep 4, 2026 – 7.13pmAustralia is investing in a vast web of undersea telecommunications cables to boost relationships within the Pacific and protect its own critical infrastructure amid fears China is mapping the ocean floor to gain a strategic edge in the region.The push included a $65 million commitment announced this week by the Albanese government to the $135 million East Micronesia Cable System, which will stretch 2250 kilometres to connect Nauru, Kiribati and the Federated States of Micronesia.Subscribe to gift this articleGift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe.Subscribe nowAlready a subscriber? Fetching latest articles