Cable rupture reported in Sweden’s economic zone near Öland affects Finland’s internet connectivity

A significant cable rupture has occurred, as reported by the Finnish state-owned company, Cinia. The incident was identified shortly after 3 AM local time. During a press briefing held on Monday afternoon, company representatives confirmed that the break happened in Sweden’s economic zone, near the southern tip of Öland.

The cable was damaged outside of the main shipping lane, although this detail does not necessarily indicate the cause of the rupture, according to Cinia’s communications director. The company suggests that external factors likely triggered the incident, although investigations are considering all possibilities, including sabotage and accidental damage. They indicated that no explosion was detected in connection with the event.

The affected fiber optic cable, C-Lion1, spans 1,200 kilometers and runs alongside the Nord Stream 1 and 2 gas pipelines on the seabed. This cable plays a crucial role in Finland’s internet connectivity, being the only direct connection between the country and Central Europe along a north-south route.

Reports indicate that the general public is unlikely to notice any immediate impact from the cable damage. A repair vessel is currently en route to the site to commence restoration efforts.