Link 1 Phase-2

Overview

Link 1 Phase-2 is a regional submarine cable system located entirely within Indonesia. Spanning a total length of 94 kilometers, this cable connects the landing points of Sanur and Senggigi, both situated on islands in the central region of the Indonesian archipelago. Operational since 2005, Link 1 Phase-2 forms a critical part of Indonesia's domestic telecommunications infrastructure, enabling reliable connectivity between these two locations. The cable is owned and operated by XLSmart, a company focused on telecommunications development in the region.

Indonesia, as the world's largest archipelagic nation, relies heavily on submarine cable systems to interconnect its many islands. Link 1 Phase-2 exemplifies this need, providing a vital link in a country where terrestrial networks are often impractical due to geographic constraints. Although relatively short in length, the cable plays an important role in supporting communication and internet services for the communities it connects.

Route and Landings

The Link 1 Phase-2 submarine cable connects two key landing points on separate islands within Indonesia. On the western end, the cable lands in Sanur, a coastal town near Denpasar, the capital of Bali. Sanur is a well-known hub for tourism and serves as a gateway to Bali, one of Indonesia's most visited islands. Its economic significance and proximity to Denpasar make it a logical choice for a submarine cable landing site.

On the eastern end, the cable terminates in Senggigi, a coastal town on the island of Lombok. Senggigi is another prominent tourist destination, known for its beaches and as a transit point for travelers heading to the Gili Islands. Lombok, located east of Bali, is a growing economic and cultural center in Indonesia. By linking Sanur and Senggigi, the cable facilitates communication and data exchange between Bali and Lombok, enhancing connectivity for residents, businesses and tourists alike.

Ownership and History

Link 1 Phase-2 is fully owned and operated by XLSmart, a telecommunications company involved in the development of infrastructure in Indonesia. The cable was completed and declared ready for service in 2005. As part of Indonesia's broader efforts to expand its domestic submarine cable network, this system was designed to address the increasing demand for reliable telecommunications and internet services within the archipelago.

The deployment of Link 1 Phase-2 reflects Indonesia's strategic focus on improving digital connectivity across its islands. While the cable itself is not among the largest or most technologically advanced systems in the region, its role in connecting Bali and Lombok underscores the importance of regional links in supporting the nation's overall digital infrastructure. The cable has now been in operation for nearly two decades, though its current operational status has not been publicly disclosed.

What Our Measurements Show

Our monitoring of submarine cable systems provides insights into the performance and reliability of Link 1 Phase-2. While specific data for this cable is limited, its relatively short length of 94 kilometers suggests a straightforward design and deployment process, likely utilizing repeaterless technology. This is typical for regional cables of this scale, where the distance between landing points does not necessitate complex amplification systems.

The geographic context of Link 1 Phase-2 is also significant. The cable crosses the Lombok Strait, a narrow but deep body of water separating Bali and Lombok. This strait is part of the Indonesian Throughflow, a major ocean current that connects the Pacific and Indian Oceans. The challenging underwater topography and strong currents in this region would have required careful planning during the cable's installation. Despite these challenges, the cable's continued presence highlights its durability and importance in supporting local connectivity needs.