SUBMARINE CABLE NETWORKS: INTERNATIONAL RELATION

SUBMARINE CABLE NETWORKS: INTERNATIONAL RELATION

NEWS: India expands undersea cable network as web resilience gains priority

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

India is set to launch two new submarine cable systems, IAX and IEX, to enhance global connectivity, data security, and strengthen its position in the Indo-Pacific region. These systems, owned by Reliance Jio, will link India with Southeast Asia, Europe, and Africa, bolstering strategic autonomy and economic growth.

 

India’s New Submarine Cable Networks

India Asia Xpress (IAX) and India Europe Xpress (IEX)

  • Connectivity:
  • IAX: Links Chennai and Mumbai with Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia.
  • IEX: Links Chennai and Mumbai to France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Djibouti.
  • Ownership: Reliance Jio, with investment from China Mobile.
  • Length: Over 15,000 km.
  • Launch: Expected within the next three months.

Strategic Importance

  • Supports growing data traffic and aligns with India’s geopolitical ambitions.
  • Enhances defense strategy by ensuring resilience against physical damage and cyberattacks.
  • Establishes India as a leader in maritime cable networks, especially in regions like the Bay of Bengal and the South China Sea.

Cable Disruptions

  • In March, disruptions to submarine cables connecting India to West Asia and Europe occurred but were mitigated by alternate routes and domestic data centers.

Connectivity in Northeast India

  • Bangladesh’s plans to sell bandwidth to India’s Northeast were put on hold, with minimal impact due to Power Grid Corporation’s fiber lines.

 

 

Emergence as a Strong Maritime Cable Player

  • Benefits:
  • Strategic autonomy: Secure communication and data sovereignty.
  • Economic growth: Boosts digital trade, e-commerce, and IT sectors.
  • Regional influence: Enhances India’s Indo-Pacific connectivity.
  • Disaster resilience: Ensures reliable communication routes.
  • National security: Protects defense and intelligence operations.
  • Challenges:

·         High investment costs.

·         Need for technological expertise.

·         Geopolitical competition for landing rights.

·         Security threats, including sabotage and espionage.

·         Environmental concerns from cable laying and maintenance.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-expands-undersea-cable-network-as-web-resilience-gains-priority/article69008962.ece#:~:text=Two%20new%20cable%20systems%20are,submarine%20cable%20security%20and%20resilience.