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What is one of the main reasons for pursuing Arctic connectivity?

• To reduce underwater hazards

• To provide geographical redundancy

• To avoid harsh environmental conditions

• To minimize maintenance costs

Answer explanation

The presentation highlights that Arctic connectivity ensures redundancy and resilience in telecommunications infrastructure, crucial for stability in the geopolitical landscape. This is emphasized on slides 5 and 9.

What makes the Arctic an attractive location for green data centers?

• The ability to reuse excess heat and free cooling

• Its proximity to major population centers

• The minimal environmental impact of construction

• Its distance from areas prone to natural disasters

Answer explanation

The Arctic’s cold climate enables free cooling and efficient reuse of excess heat, making it a cost-effective and sustainable location for green data centers. This is highlighted on slide 10.

What is a primary challenge of building subsea cables through the Arctic?

• Lack of financial support

• Limited international interest

• Harsh environmental conditions

• High demand for Arctic routes

Answer explanation

Slides 6 and 7 explain that low temperatures, ice movement, multi-year ice, depth, topology and strong ocean currents pose significant challenges to Arctic cable projects.

What is the significance of SMART cables mentioned in the presentation?

• They are cheaper than traditional cables

• They integrate sensors for climate research and security

• They require minimal maintenance

• They use solar power for operation

Answer explanation

SMART cables are equipped with sensors to monitor ocean conditions, track marine life, and enhance security. These features are outlined on slide 12.

What is a key advantage of Arctic submarine cables over existing routes?

• Lower installation costs compared to other regions

• Enhanced support for EU digital sovereignty

• Simplified permitting and approval processes

• Reduced need for ongoing maintenance

Answer explanation

Arctic submarine cables contribute to strengthening EU digital sovereignty and complement existing routes, as noted on slide 4. This aligns with the EU’s vision of global data gateways and geopolitical strategies.