Asia-Pacific Connectivity Gets Major Boost from New Submarine Cable

SJC2 System Promises Enhanced Speed and Reliability for Digital Future

A vital new artery for digital traffic has been activated, linking key hubs across Asia. The SJC2 submarine cable system is set to significantly upgrade the region’s internet backbone, fueling demand for advanced services like AI.

Expansive Network Powers High-Speed Data

The SJC2 cable spans approximately 10,500 kilometers, connecting Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan. It also extends its reach to other significant Asia-Pacific nations and territories. Built by NEC, the system utilizes cutting-edge optical wavelength division multiplexing technology, enabling data transmission speeds exceeding 126 terabits per second.

Strengthening Regional Digital Infrastructure

This deployment bolsters submarine cable infrastructure by adding crucial capacity, route diversity, and resilience. The enhanced network redundancy aims to meet the escalating need for connectivity across Southeast and East Asia, fostering a more stable communications environment for AI and other data-intensive applications.

“As a critical part of global digital infrastructure, the SJC2 cable system will boost connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region, delivering unparalleled bandwidth capacity and ultra-low latency to power the next-generation of cloud computing, AI-driven services and real-time data exchange across Asia’s leading economies.”

—Meng Fai Yue, Senior Director, Singtel, and Herbert Xiong, Head of Submarine Cables Infrastructure, China Mobile International

NEC, a veteran in submarine cable systems with over six decades of experience, played a pivotal role as the system integrator. Their involvement encompassed the entire process, from manufacturing the cables and repeaters to route design, installation, and testing.

“In this project, NEC participated as a system integrator, providing everything from the manufacturing of submarine cables and repeaters to route design, installation, and testing. By establishing a highly reliable communications environment, NEC is contributing to the digitalization and technological innovation of countries throughout the region.”

—Tomonori Uematsu, NEC Corporate SVP and Managing Director of the Submarine Network Division

The increased capacity and reduced latency provided by SJC2 are anticipated to accelerate digital transformation initiatives. For instance, the global AI market is projected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2030, underscoring the critical need for robust digital infrastructure (Source: Precedence Research, 2023).

Future-Proofing Connectivity

The SJC2 system represents a significant leap forward in regional digital connectivity. Its advanced capabilities are designed to support the evolving demands of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other bandwidth-heavy applications, ensuring the Asia-Pacific region remains at the forefront of technological innovation.