Subsea cable linking USA and Ireland unveiled by AWS

Fastnet, which is expected to be operational in 2028, has been designed to improve network resilience by adding a new, independent data route across the Atlantic.

The new cable will feature advanced optical switching technology, enabling seamless rerouting of data as future network needs evolve.

With a design capacity exceeding 320 terabits per second (Tbps), Fastnet will become part of AWS’s vast global network, for example, the system delivers over 320 terabits per second, enough to stream 12.5 million HD films simultaneously.

Additionally, the company revealed, its two unique landing points provide critical redundancy, ensuring that the technology giant’s services continue to run smoothly even if other cables experience issues.

Meanwhile, AWS has claimed the move will help meet the demand from AI workloads, cloud-native applications and global commerce.

“Unlike the public internet, where each networking device makes routing decisions with limited network visibility, AWS’s centralised, real-time traffic monitoring system has complete visibility into every link within the global network,”” the company wrote in a statement.

“This system implements millions of daily optimisations to ensure customer traffic always uses the most available and performant path, avoiding congestion and other issues before they impact applications.”

Alongside this, the company also announced Community Benefit Funds for both Maryland’s Eastern Shore and County Cork, aimed at supporting local initiatives in sustainability, education, workforce development and inclusion.

Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, said: “Amazon’s new Fastnet transatlantic subsea cable represents a vote of confidence in Ireland’s digital future, helping to enable the next wave of innovation in cloud computing and artificial intelligence.

“By linking County Cork to Maryland in the United States, Ireland will become a true gateway to Europe for submarine telecommunications cables. This investment will enhance our global connectivity, reinforce the resilience of critical digital infrastructure, and strengthen our economic competitiveness.”

“Building Maryland’s first-ever subsea fibre cable is an achievement bigger than broadband connectivity- it’s about securing Maryland’s status as a global hub for innovation, job creation, and high-tech investment,” Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland added.

“To grow our economy, we need to prioritise industries of the future. That is exactly what this project helps us deliver, in partnership with leaders with deep local ties and robust commitment to community engagement.”

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