Engineers, divers and other workers worked around the clock in less than ideal weather to ensure the repair of TelEm Group’s SMPR-1 cable.
PHILIPSBURG – TelEm Group is pleased to announce the successful restoration of its SMPR-1 submarine cable, which was out of service for nearly eight years. The repair work, which was carried out in Playa Isla Verde, San Juan, Puerto Rico, was completed despite difficult weather conditions, including the threat of Tropical Storm Ernesto.
For the past three weeks, the specialized cable-laying vessel CS Wave Sentinel has braved rough seas to complete the crucial repair. The operation faced significant hurdles, but on August 10, 2024, the SMPR-1 cable was successfully returned to the seabed, spliced, and reinforced with additional shielding.
Jed Carty, TelEm Group network engineer and SMPR-1 project manager, played a key role in overseeing the repair. Monitoring the process from the Blue Manta and in constant communication with the CS Wave Sentinel, Carty provided daily reports to the executives.
Acting Chief Technology Officer Shairon Offerman praised Carty and the team for their perseverance under difficult conditions. TelEm Group Chief Executive Officer Kendall Dupersoy and Chief Financial Officer Randell F. Hato also expressed their gratitude and congratulations following the successful repair.
The next steps include a series of tests to ensure the full functionality of the cable. Dupersoy said the restoration is an important milestone for TelEm Group as it continues its transformation into an integrated digital service provider (IDSP) for St. Maarten.
“This achievement is not only a great success for TelEm Group, but also a great benefit for St. Maarten,” said Dupersoy. “The shareholder and the board of directors have been informed of this milestone, which reflects the commitment and determination of our team.”
