SUBCO subsea cable infrastructure expansion

SUBCO, a Brisbane-based operator, has announced plans to develop three new subsea cable systems totaling over 24,000km to address surging bandwidth demand driven by artificial intelligence in the Indo-Pacific. The proposed systems include APX North, connecting Sydney to Japan via Guam; APX East-2, linking Guam to Los Angeles; and APX West, connecting Perth to Singapore with branches to Jakarta and Batam. The project is targeted for completion by 2029.

To support these infrastructure goals and bolster maritime capabilities, SUBCO is considering significant investments in specialized equipment. This includes the potential purchase of an uncrewed surface vessel for cable route surveys and ecological research, with a target delivery of December 2027. Furthermore, the company is evaluating the acquisition of a submarine cable laying vessel, an asset currently lacking in Australia. This investment, estimated at approximately US$165 million, could include remotely operated vehicles and ploughs, with a potential delivery by the end of 2029. SUBCO leadership indicated expectations for government contributions from Australia and the United States to support these sovereign capability investments.