UK telco VodafoneThree is considering laying a subsea cable system from Scotland to the Shetland Islands.

The archipelago, located northeast of Scotland in the North Sea, is currently connected to the British mainland by way of one cable – SHEFA-2.

Director of Vodafone Business Nick Gliddon said: “During our meetings in November 2024, with Shetland Islands Council, it was really apparent to me that connectivity is essential for everything from daily transactions to the growth of businesses and the economy.

“Through initiatives like the Shared Rural Network (SRN) programme, we are providing strong and reliable 4G coverage to our customers living in, working in, and visiting Shetland.”

Scotland’s Minister for Business Richard Lochhead added: “Private investment is critical to delivering this mission and I welcome VodafoneThree’s renewed commitment to help deliver the infrastructure needed to support our island communities, including its intention to undertake a feasibility study into a subsea connection between Shetland and the mainland.”

Vodafone recently finalized its merger with CK Hutchinson’s Three on June 2, marking an end to a two-and-a-half-year process. Vodafone owns 51 percent of the company, and Three owns the remaining 49 percent.