EAUFON 3

Overview

EAUFON 3 is a submarine cable system designed to provide enhanced connectivity to the remote Nunavik region in northern Quebec, Canada. Spanning approximately 900 kilometers, it is a domestic cable that links seven isolated communities along the eastern coast of Quebec. The cable plays a critical role in bridging the digital divide in this sparsely populated Arctic region, where terrestrial infrastructure is limited and reliable broadband access is essential for social and economic development. EAUFON 3 is scheduled to be ready for service in 2027 and will form part of the broader undersea network operated by Tamaani Internet, which focuses on serving Indigenous and remote communities in northern Quebec.

Route and Landings

The EAUFON 3 cable system connects seven communities in Nunavik: Aupaluk, Kangiqsualujjuaq, Kangiqsujuaq, Kangirsuk, Kuujjuaq, Quaqtaq, and Tasiujaq. These landing points are located along the shores of Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay, a region characterized by rugged terrain, harsh weather conditions, and sparse population. The cable's route reflects the geographic realities of the region, where overland connectivity is challenging due to a lack of roads and other infrastructure linking these remote settlements. By following the coastline, EAUFON 3 provides a practical solution for delivering high-speed internet to these communities, enabling them to access critical services and participate in the digital economy.

The cable's landing points are strategically chosen to serve the largest and most centrally located settlements in Nunavik. Kuujjuaq, the administrative and economic hub of the region, is a key node in the network, while the other six locations ensure that smaller, more isolated communities are also connected. This distribution underscores the importance of submarine cables in providing equitable access to connectivity in remote areas.

Ownership and History

EAUFON 3 is owned and operated by Tamaani Internet, an organization dedicated to improving broadband access in northern Quebec. Tamaani Internet has been a driving force in deploying submarine cable infrastructure across Nunavik, with EAUFON 3 representing the latest phase of its efforts. The cable builds on the success of earlier systems, including EAUFON 1, which entered service in 2022, and EAUFON 2, operational since 2024. Together, these cables form a comprehensive network that connects the majority of Nunavik's coastal communities, addressing long-standing connectivity challenges in the region.

The deployment of EAUFON 3 is part of a broader trend in Canada's Arctic regions, where submarine cables are increasingly seen as a viable solution for delivering broadband services. Compared to traditional satellite-based systems, undersea cables offer significantly higher capacity and lower latency, making them better suited for modern internet applications. Tamaani Internet's investment in this infrastructure highlights its commitment to supporting the social and economic development of Nunavik's communities.

What Our Measurements Show

Although EAUFON 3 is not yet operational, our monitoring of existing submarine cables in the region provides valuable insights into the potential performance and impact of the system. Previous cables deployed by Tamaani Internet, such as EAUFON 1 and EAUFON 2, have demonstrated consistent reliability and high data transfer speeds, even under the challenging environmental conditions of the Arctic. These systems have significantly improved connectivity for the communities they serve, enabling access to online education, telemedicine, and other essential services.

Our probes indicate that the geographic and environmental conditions along the planned route of EAUFON 3, including the icy waters of Hudson Strait and Ungava Bay, will require robust engineering and careful maintenance to ensure long-term performance. However, the success of similar systems in the region suggests that these challenges can be effectively managed. Once operational, EAUFON 3 is expected to deliver similar benefits, further reducing the digital divide in Nunavik and supporting the region's integration into the global digital network.