Nextgen Networks, Matrix Networks and NAP Info have floated a plan to build a new subsea cable between Singapore and Perth.
The system would ultimately connect to Sydney through Nextgen’s terrestrial network across Australia.
“This collaborative effort by Nextgen, Matrix and NAP Info would bring together significant existing network assets that cover more than 60% of the cable km’s that would otherwise need to be built,” the firm said.
Matrix and NAP Info own and operate the Matrix Cable system that joins Singapore and Jakarta as well as fiber connectivity in those countries.
Nextgen operates terrestrial fiber between Perth - the Australian landing point for the new cable - and Brisbane.
The proposed network, with an initial design capacity of 2.56Tbps and a service offering from carrier neutral POPs in Singapore Jakarta and Sydney, could be completed as soon as November 2011.
“There is significant demand to introduce a new open access cable system between Singapore and Sydney,” said Jim Schweigert, Matrix Networks executive vice-president.
“This project will connect one of the key 'missing links' in the worldwide mesh network. Joining both of these existing networks circumvents many of the challenges faced by previous proposed projects."
Peter McGrath, executive GM of the telecom group at Leighton Contractors - Nextgen’s parent - said: "The project is subject to Board approval of the business case. Based on what we have in place to date, the business case looks sound while our preliminary discussions with the market have exceeded expectations."