Bifrost Cable System Ready for Service strengthens Asia-US digital link
The Bifrost Cable System has reached its Ready for Service (RFS) milestone, marking a major leap in trans-Pacific digital connectivity. Developed by Keppel Ltd., the 20,000-kilometer subsea system is the world’s first direct link between Singapore and the US west coast via Indonesia.
Bifrost is built to support cloud computing, AI workloads, and real-time digital services. It offers a round-trip latency of under 165 milliseconds between Singapore and the US, making it up to 10 milliseconds faster than existing systems. With over 260 terabits per second (Tbps) of capacity, it will strengthen one of the busiest digital corridors in the world.
Keppel CEO for Connectivity Manjot Singh Mann said the project reinforces Singapore’s role as Asia’s digital hub. “This landmark project will bolster digital connectivity between Southeast Asia and the USA. It supports the region’s growing digital economy,” he said.
Keppel owns five of the cable’s 12 fiber pairs through a 40-60 joint venture with private fund co-investors. The cable lands in Singapore, Guam, and Grover Beach, California, with branching units to Indonesia, the Philippines, and Oregon.
In the Philippines, Converge ICT Solutions Inc. serves as the landing partner in Davao. CEO Dennis Anthony Uy said, “This critical infrastructure provides a direct link to the US, boosting bandwidth and ensuring network diversity for the Philippines’ digital growth.”
Alcatel Submarine Networks (ASN) built the system. CEO Alain Biston said the milestone reflects close collaboration and strong technical delivery.
Once live, Bifrost will enhance global data exchange and support Asia’s next wave of digital transformation, ensuring a faster and more resilient connection between continents.
