🌊 INSURE: Protecting the Hidden Lifelines Beneath Our Seas
Smart Security for a Connected World
Deep beneath the ocean surface lies a vast network of cables and pipelines , the invisible systems that keep our world running. They deliver electricity , internet , and data across continents, supporting trade, communication, and modern life.
But these critical infrastructures are increasingly at risk, from accidental damage , harsh weather , or even intentional sabotage .
The INSURE project is building intelligent solutions to protect them.
⚙️ What Is INSURE?
INSURE – Intelligent Decision Support for Underwater Infrastructure Monitoring towards Higher Societal Security & Resilience is a groundbreaking research and innovation project led by UiT The Arctic University of Norway together with Alcatel Submarine Networks, Telenor, Statnett, the Norwegian Coastal Administration (Kystverket), and the Norwegian Coast Guard (Kystvakten).
Together, we are developing smart underwater surveillance technology to secure the essential lifelines of our societies.
💡 Our Vision
To make underwater infrastructure intelligent, self-monitoring, and resilient, so that potential threats can be detected before they become disasters.
🌐 How It Works
🧠 Turning Cables into Smart Sensors
Using cutting-edge fiber optic sensing technology (Distributed Acoustic Sensing - OptoDAS), INSURE transforms ordinary cables into ultra-sensitive detectors. These fibers can “listen” to vibrations along the seabed, from fishing gear, anchors, underwater drones, or natural movements, and send early warnings of potential danger.
🤖 AI for Ocean Intelligence
INSURE uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze massive amounts of real-time data. The system learns to recognize different types of activity, distinguishing normal operations from suspicious or hazardous events.
🛰️ Linking Sea and Surface
By combining underwater signals with vessel tracking data (AIS), INSURE connects what happens under the sea with what’s happening on the surface. This integration allows rapid identification of risks and responsible actors.
📍 Pilot Site in the Arctic
Our pilot study takes place near Berlevåg, Norway, a vital link in Norway’s northern communication and energy networks. Here, INSURE will test long-range, real-time monitoring under some of the world’s harshest ocean conditions. Local data processing (edge computing) ensures immediate alerts even in remote Arctic environments.
🛡️ Why It Matters
- Enhancing national and maritime security
- Protecting vital power and communication links
- Supporting first responders with real-time intelligence
- Preventing environmental disasters from pipeline or cable failures
- Strengthening resilience in Europe’s and the Arctic’s digital and energy infrastructure
🌍 Global Relevance
Incidents such as the Nord Stream pipeline explosions (2022) and recent cable disruptions in the Baltic Sea highlight how vulnerable our underwater networks are. INSURE represents Norway’s leadership in building safer, smarter, and more resilient ocean technologies, with potential applications across Europe and worldwide.
🎯 Contributing to Global Goals
INSURE supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- ⚡ SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- 🏗️ SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
- 🌆 SDG 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities
- 🌊 SDG 14: Life Below Water
- 🕊️ SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
🧩 Project Partners
- UiT The Arctic University of Norway – Project coordination, AI & decision support
- Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) – Fiber optic sensing and field deployment
- Telenor – Network infrastructure and communication security
- Statnett – Energy transmission and submarine cable management
- Kystverket (Norwegian Coastal Administration) – Maritime surveillance and hazard assessment
- Kystvakten (Norwegian Coast Guard) – Security operations and field validation
🚀 The Future of Ocean Security
INSURE is more than a research project; it’s a step toward a new era of intelligent maritime protection. By merging advanced sensing, AI, and collaborative decision support, we’re ensuring the safety, sustainability, and resilience of the blue infrastructure that connects our world.