US trade agency to fund study for Thailand-US subsea cable
Type: Financing · Technology: Telecom · Country: Thailand · Announced: 2026-09-15
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) announced a grant to fund a feasibility study for the Thailand-US Submarine Cable System (THUS), a project led by Thailand's state-owned National Telecom (NT). The 11,500-mile (18,507km) cable aims to replace Thailand's aging subsea connection to the U.S. by connecting the two countries through up to five Southeast Asian nations while avoiding the South China Sea. NT selected Florida-based APTelecom LLC to conduct the study, which will assess the viability of the project and support the development of a trusted, open-access submarine cable system.
Analysis
On 15 September 2026 the U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced a grant to fund a feasibility study for the Thailand‑US Submarine Cable System (THUS), a project led by Thailand’s state‑owned National Telecom and studied by Florida‑based APTelecom. The USTDA agency supports U.S. companies in exporting goods and services for priority development projects in emerging economies. National Telecom Public Company Limited is Thailand’s state‑owned telecom operator. APTelecom, founded in 2009, provides subsea cable, fiber, satellite, data‑centre and cloud consulting services to governments, operators and enterprises worldwide.
Key points
- USTDA grant announced 15 September 2026
- THUS cable length 11,500 miles (18,507 km)
- National Telecom is Thailand’s state‑owned telecom operator
- APTelecom selected to conduct the feasibility study
- Cable route will connect Thailand and the United States via up to five Southeast Asian nations while avoiding the South China Sea
Counterparties
- U.S. Trade and Development Agency (Lender)
- APTelecom (Supplier)
- National Telecom Public Company Limited (Developer)
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