Sunoque II

Overview

The Sunoque II submarine cable is a telecommunications link connecting two locations within Quebec, Canada. Commissioned and ready for service in 1999, this cable serves as a critical component of the province's communications infrastructure. While its total length is unspecified, Sunoque II provides connectivity between the towns of Bic and Forestville, both situated along the southern shore of the Saint Lawrence River, a vital waterway in eastern Canada. The cable is jointly owned by Hydro-Québec, a major electricity utility, and Telus, a leading Canadian telecommunications provider. This infrastructure supports regional data traffic and communication needs, playing an important role in linking communities across Quebec.

Route and Landings

The Sunoque II submarine cable connects two landing points: Bic and Forestville, both located in Quebec, Canada. Bic is a small town in the Bas-Saint-Laurent region, known for its proximity to the Saint Lawrence River and the Bic National Park. Forestville, on the opposite shore, is situated in the Côte-Nord region, an area characterized by its rugged coastline and forested landscapes. The cable crosses the Saint Lawrence River, one of the world's largest estuaries, which serves as a natural barrier between these two communities.

This route was likely chosen for its strategic importance in linking the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Côte-Nord regions, fostering improved communication and connectivity across the province. The Saint Lawrence River is a critical geographic feature in eastern Canada, and the placement of the Sunoque II cable across this waterway underscores its role in bridging communities separated by this natural divide. By connecting Bic and Forestville, the cable enhances local access to telecommunications services, supporting both residential and business needs in these areas.

Ownership and History

Sunoque II is co-owned by Hydro-Québec and Telus, two prominent organizations in Canada. Hydro-Québec is a provincial utility company responsible for electricity generation, transmission, and distribution across Quebec. Its involvement in the cable's ownership reflects its broader role in supporting infrastructure projects that benefit the province. Telus, on the other hand, is a major telecommunications provider in Canada, offering a range of services including internet, television, and mobile communications. The partnership between these two entities highlights the collaborative effort to enhance Quebec's telecommunications capabilities.

The cable was completed and became operational in 1999. While specific details about its construction and deployment are not available, its establishment during this period aligns with a broader trend of expanding telecommunications infrastructure to meet the growing demand for digital connectivity. The cable's deployment underscores the importance of reliable communication links in supporting economic development and social connectivity within Quebec.

What Our Measurements Show

Our live monitoring of the Sunoque II cable includes data collection from 24 measured corridors. The best round-trip time (RTT) recorded is 0 milliseconds, indicating an exceptionally low latency in certain conditions, though this may reflect localized measurements rather than end-to-end performance. The average RTT across the cable is 133 milliseconds, which is consistent with expectations for regional submarine cables of this type.

The monitoring data suggests that the cable continues to function effectively, providing stable and reliable connectivity between its landing points. The performance metrics highlight its role in maintaining robust communication links across the Saint Lawrence River. These measurements are essential for assessing the cable's operational health and ensuring its continued contribution to Quebec's telecommunications infrastructure.