SoftBank has announced a strategic alliance with Meta, IPS, TM Technology Services Sdn. Bhd. and PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk to develop “Candle”, a new international submarine cable system that will connect Japan and Singapore, and NEC Corporation has been selected as the system provider.
Construction of the submarine cable system
The project contemplates the construction of a submarine cable of approximately 8,000 kilometers linking Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. It is expected to be operational by 2028 and will contribute to the expansion of digital infrastructure in Asia, providing redundant routes to meet the growing demand for data communications driven by technologies such as 5G and generative artificial intelligence.
The Candle system will have a configuration of 24 pairs of optical fibers, surpassing current standards, which range between 16 and 20 pairs. This innovation will allow greater transmission capacity and lower latency, strengthening regional connectivity.
Candle represents a fundamental step forward in strengthening the region’s digital infrastructure.
As the need for robust, high-speed connectivity grows, Candle will offer increased network diversity and resiliency along this essential corridor, leveraging cutting-edge technology.
This milestone reflects the close collaboration between our partners and underscores our shared commitment to driving digital inclusion and economic opportunity for more than 500 million people in the Asia-Pacific region.
Don Pang, Chairman of Candle’s Management Committee (Meta)
As part of the project, SoftBank will be responsible for landing the cable in Japan, using its Maruyama Landing Station in Minamiboso City, Chiba Prefecture. In addition, the company is promoting the construction of new stations in Hokkaido(Tomakomai) and Kyushu(Itoshima, Fukuoka) to geographically diversify the infrastructure and strengthen resilience to natural disasters.
SoftBank Corp has been actively involved in other global submarine cable projects such as JUPITER, ADC and E2A construction. These initiatives are part of its strategy to expand and diversify international connectivity, enhance network resilience and respond to the growing needs for cloud services, AI-based applications and digital transformation in Japan and across the Asia-Pacific region.
Source and photo: SoftBank
