Escalating tensions in the Red Sea are prompting Indian telecom operators to overhaul their approach to undersea cable infrastructure, a critical component of the country’s international internet connectivity. The region, home to key submarine cables like SEA-ME-WE 6 and 2Africa Pearls, has become increasingly unstable due to ongoing attacks by Houthi rebels. These disruptions threaten cables that carry a significant share of India’s global data traffic, connecting it to Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
India’s heavy reliance on these routes has revealed serious vulnerabilities. In response, telecom giants such as Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are rethinking their long-term strategies. A shift is now underway toward building excess capacity, developing alternate routes, and expanding domestic cable maintenance capabilities.
Bharti Airtel, for instance, has made significant moves in 2025, landing six new submarine cables in Chennai and Mumbai and signing 34 additional capacity agreements across 11 global systems. Operators are also exploring hybrid connectivity models, including new land-based corridors through the Middle East and Europe, which combine terrestrial and submarine infrastructure to bypass unstable maritime zones.
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Despite these efforts, several operational challenges persist. Repair vessels working in the Red Sea are now subject to steep insurance premiums and, in some cases, ransom demands. Combined with India’s limited domestic repair capabilities, these issues mean cable outages could lead to prolonged internet disruptions. Heavy maritime traffic, especially in fishing zones, has also increased the risk of accidental damage to cables.
Industry experts are urging the Indian government to classify submarine cables as critical infrastructure, deserving of strategic protection and investment. Enhancing indigenous cable repair capabilities and supporting the diversification of landing stations are seen as urgent national priorities.
As the global digital landscape becomes increasingly fragile, India‘s ability to adapt and secure its international bandwidth will play a crucial role in maintaining its economic and strategic resilience.
