India Expands Undersea Cable Network for Connectivity

India’s undersea cable network is rapidly expanding in 2024. The nation is set to launch two cable systems – the India Asia Xpress (IAX) and the India Europe Xpress (IEX). These systems will enhance internet connectivity between India and Asia, as well as Europe. This development reflects India’s growing role in global internet infrastructure and its strategic focus on cable security.

Overview of New Cable Systems

The IAX and IEX will collectively span over 15,000 kilometres. IAX connects Chennai and Mumbai to Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. Meanwhile, IEX links these Indian cities to France, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Djibouti. Both systems are owned by Reliance Jio with a strategic investment from China Mobile. This expansion adds to the numerous cables already landing in India, primarily in Mumbai and Chennai.

Geopolitical Implications

The expansion of India’s undersea cables indicates a rise in geopolitical ambitions. Experts believe that these cables will enhance India’s defence strategy against potential disruptions. Jagannath Panda from the Stockholm Center for South Asian and Indo-Pacific Affairs marks the importance of cable resilience against cyberattacks. India is positioning itself as a key player in maritime cable networks, especially in the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea regions.

Impact of Disruptions

Recent incidents have shown the vulnerability of submarine cables. In March 2024, three cables linking India to West Asia and Europe were disrupted. Despite this, alternate routes allowed traffic to continue flowing. Data centres within India played important role in maintaining connectivity for essential services. This incident raised concerns about the stability of internet services and prompted discussions on resilience measures.

International Collaboration and Challenges

India is actively participating in international discussions on submarine cable resilience. Telecom Secretary Neeraj Mittal is involved with the International Advisory Body for Submarine Cable Resilience. The focus is on ensuring that services remain operational during disruptions. Challenges also arise from regional partnerships. Bangladesh’s recent decision to halt bandwidth sales to Northeast India marks the complexities of connectivity agreements.

Future Considerations

The strategic positioning of undersea cables raises questions about choke points, particularly in the Malacca Strait. If incident occurs in this area, it could disrupt multiple cables simultaneously. Solutions are being explored to bypass these choke points, but no concrete plans exist yet. Telcos and tech companies are advised to purchase bandwidth from multiple routes to ensure redundancy and avoid connectivity loss.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the significance of undersea cable networks in global internet connectivity.
2. Explain the role of submarine cables in India’s national security strategy against cyber threats.
3. Critically examine the impact of geopolitical tensions on international internet infrastructure.
4. What are choke points in maritime routes? How do they affect global trade and communication?

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the significance of undersea cable networks in global internet connectivity.

1. Undersea cables carry approximately 99% of international internet traffic.
2. They facilitate high-speed data transfer between continents, enhancing global communication.
3. New cable systems increase bandwidth and reduce latency for users worldwide.
4. Expansion of networks reflects growing digital economies and data demand.
5. They play important role in connecting remote regions and enhancing economic opportunities.

2. Explain the role of submarine cables in India’s national security strategy against cyber threats.

1. Submarine cables are vital for secure and reliable communication infrastructure.
2. They enhance resilience against cyberattacks by diversifying connectivity options.
3. India’s investment in cable security reflects its geopolitical ambitions and defense strategies.
4. Active participation in international bodies strengthens collaborative security measures.
5. Robust cable networks support critical services, ensuring national stability during disruptions.

3. Critically examine the impact of geopolitical tensions on international internet infrastructure.

1. Geopolitical tensions can lead to disruptions in submarine cable operations and maintenance.
2. Countries may engage in cyber warfare targeting undersea infrastructure, affecting data flow.
3. Strategic partnerships and agreements are essential to mitigate risks and ensure resilience.
4. Regional conflicts can result in investment hesitancy in critical infrastructure projects.
5. Emerging players in the market may alter traditional routes, impacting global connectivity dynamics.

4. What are choke points in maritime routes? How do they affect global trade and communication?

1. Choke points are narrow passages in maritime routes that are critical for shipping traffic.
2. They can become bottlenecks, potentially disrupting trade and communication if blocked.
3. Examples include the Malacca Strait, which connects major Asian economies.
4. Disruptions at choke points can impact multiple undersea cables, affecting global internet connectivity.
5. Strategic planning is necessary to mitigate risks associated with these vulnerabilities.