The consortium has selected ASN to build a state-of-the-art transpacific fiber optic network spanning approximately 12,500km, designed to significantly enhance digital connectivity between Asia and North America. With the surge in demand driven by cloud computing, data processing and next-gen mobile networks, the need for ultra-high-capacity, low-latency infrastructure has never been greater. The E2A represents a major step forward in global communications, delivering unprecedented performance, scalability, and reliability, while integrating sustainability-driven design principles.
A Strategic Route for Next-Generation Connectivity
Crossing the Pacific Ocean, the E2A cable system will link major digital hubs in Asia and North America, with landings in Toucheng (Taiwan), Busan (South Korea), Maruyama (Chiba, Japan), and Morro Bay (California, USA).
The E2A system will provide a robust backbone for AI applications, data centers, and cloud services, ensuring high-speed connectivity across the Pacific as well as intra-Asia.
Cutting-Edge Technology
The E2A cable will integrate the latest advancements in submarine network technology, featuring:
- 12 fiber pairs (FP) delivering capacity of more than 192Tbps
- Open Cable System architecture, enabling seamless scalability and multi-operator connectivity
- 18kV power technology, optimizing efficiency across all subsea infrastructure
- Optimized latency to support next-generation computing applications and digital services
With an expected Ready for Service (RFS) date in 2H 2028, the E2A system is set to significantly expand digital capabilities across the Pacific.
The E2A Consortium brings together leading global telecommunications players, reinforcing a shared commitment to expanding and enhancing regional and global digital infrastructure.
Chunghwa Telecom Chairman, Chih-Cheng Chien, expressed great anticipation for the E2A cable system and stated, “Chunghwa Telecom will continue to enhance its resilient network infrastructure by integrating submarine cables, fiber optics, mobile communications, satellites, and microwave technologies—forming a comprehensive ‘Sea, Land, Sky, and Space’ network. Leveraging Taiwan’s strategic position as an Asia-Pacific information hub, we aim to attract international operators to establish a presence in Taiwan, further advancing AI-driven innovations and co-creation services to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
Teruyuki Oya, Vice President, Head of the Mobile & Network Division, Technology Unit, at SoftBank Corp., said, “We’re very pleased to have initiated the project for a new submarine cable connecting East Asia and the United States. As we enter an era where AI is being fully implemented, the importance of international submarine cables connecting not only Japan and the United States but also major parts of Asia as arteries of information is increasing. SoftBank will advance the development of global, multifaceted, and stable platforms by building infrastructure for the AI era.”
Ha Min-Yong, director of SK Broadband’s AI DC business division, said, “Through our participation in the E2A submarine cable, we hope to significantly increase the reliability and scalability of the network to meet the diverse demands of the AI era.”
“We are proud to be part of the E2A project, which will revolutionize transpacific connectivity. This system will provide unmatched capacity and reliability, supporting the evolving needs of businesses, cloud services, and consumers across the region,” said Paul Gabla, ASN Chief Sales & Marketing Officer.
Enabling the AI Era and the Future of Global Communications
The rapid proliferation of AI-driven workloads, combined with the increasing demands from cloud services, gaming, and enterprise applications, has accelerated the need for next-generation subsea connectivity.
Designed with the future in mind, E2A will ensure that hyperscalers, enterprises, and network operators have access to the high-performance infrastructure required to support global digital revolution.
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