Telstra International and Trans Pacific Networks (TPN) have joined forces to introduce the Echo cable, marking the first subsea cable directly linking the United States to Singapore and establishing a novel route in the Trans-Pacific network. The Echo subsea system interconnects California, Jakarta, Singapore, and Guam, providing a robust network infrastructure that delivers low latency and high-speed connectivity between South Asia and the United States.

The geographical area chosen for the new cable presents unique challenges, including regulatory complexities and the risk of subsea cable cuts. Telstra, leveraging its extensive subsea network scale, is well-positioned to navigate these challenges, ensuring the stability of global digital connectivity, according to Roary Stasko, CEO of Telstra International.

Within the partnership, Telstra assumes the role of TPN’s operating partner for the Echo cable system. Additionally, Telstra will provide cable landing station services for Echo in Singapore and deliver Network Operations Center services. Collaborating with XL Axiata, which is handling the cable landing in Tanjung Pakis, Telstra extends its services into Indonesia.

Partially funded by the US International Development Finance Corporation, the initial segments of the Echo cable (Guam to the US) are slated for launch in mid-2024, with the remaining segments expected in 2025. Aaron Knapik, CFO of TPN, emphasized the Echo subsea cable system’s significance in enhancing the Indo-Pacific’s digital infrastructure, strengthening networks, increasing capacity, and reducing internet costs in the region.