What's Happening?
SUBCO, an undersea cable builder, has announced plans to construct a new 16-pair submarine fibre link, named APX East, which will directly connect Australia and the United States. This cable is set to be the longest continuous optical subsea cable globally
and will provide Australia with its lowest latency link to the US. The project is expected to be operational by late 2028, with landing points in Sydney and San Diego, and additional branches to Hawaii and Fiji by 2029. The cable will feature a single-end power feed capability, ensuring continued operation even if damaged. This development aims to meet the growing demand for data capacity driven by AI-related workloads and enhance Australia's international connectivity.
Why It's Important?
The APX East cable is a critical infrastructure project that will significantly enhance data connectivity between Australia and the United States. As demand for AI processing and data-intensive applications grows, the need for robust and high-capacity undersea cables becomes increasingly important. This project will not only improve data transfer speeds and reliability but also reduce dependency on existing routes that pass through other jurisdictions, thereby minimizing regulatory hurdles and geopolitical risks. The cable's construction aligns with Australia's aspirations to become a leader in AI and digital innovation, providing the necessary infrastructure to support future technological advancements.
What's Next?
As SUBCO progresses with the APX East project, it will focus on securing necessary permits and finalizing construction plans. The company will also likely engage with potential customers and stakeholders to ensure the cable's capacity is fully utilized upon completion. The successful implementation of this project could set a precedent for future undersea cable developments, encouraging further investments in international connectivity infrastructure. Additionally, the cable's operation will be closely monitored to assess its impact on data transfer efficiency and its role in supporting Australia's digital economy.
