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SUBCO Plans Investment in Subsea Infrastructure with Cable Ship and Survey Drone

SUBCO Plans Investment in Subsea Infrastructure with Cable Ship and Survey Drone

First seen 7 Oct 2026, 17:28 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 8, 2026 at 16:42 UTC
  • •SUBCO is considering a USV for cable surveys and a cable-laying ship.
  • •The cable-laying vessel could cost US$165 million, with delivery by 2029.
  • •Government funding from the US and Australia is anticipated to support these projects.

SUBCO is evaluating the purchase of an uncrewed surface vessel (USV) for cable-route surveys and a dedicated cable-laying ship, as announced by founder Bevan Slattery at the AusNOG conference. The USV could be owned or leased, with a target delivery date of December 2027, while the cable-laying vessel is estimated to cost around US$165 million and could be delivered by the end of 2029. SUBCO aims to enhance Australia's subsea infrastructure capabilities, which currently lack a dedicated cable-laying vessel. Slattery indicated that government contributions from the US and Australia would be sought to support these investments. A decision on the cable-laying vessel is expected by the end of 2026. The initiatives are still under evaluation and not yet committed.

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Timeline

2026-10-06
SUBCO announces plans at AusNOG conference
Bevan Slattery outlined the potential purchase of a USV and a cable-laying vessel to enhance Australia's subsea capabilities.
Itnews.Au
2026-10-07
SUBCO's plans reported by Subtelforum
The evaluation of the USV and cable-laying ship was confirmed, with details on costs and timelines shared.
Subtelforum

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Common questions

What is the expected cost of the cable-laying vessel?
The cable-laying vessel is estimated to cost around US$165 million.
When will a decision be made on the cable-laying vessel?
A decision is expected by the end of 2026.
What capabilities will the USV provide?
The USV will support cable-route surveys and marine biology research.