Fiber optic network provider Mox will join the Topaz subsea cable.

The carrier has acquired spectrum from Google, as reported by Capacity Media.

Topaz
– Submarine Cable Map

First announced in April 2022, the Google-owned Topaz subsea cable system connects Asia and Canada, with landing points in Port Alberni and Vancouver in Canada, and Shima and Takahagi in Japan.

Set live in 2023, Topaz features 16 fiber pairs and a total capacity of 240Tbps.

Mox will use its existing network to connect data hubs along the Topaz route.

“We are thrilled to join Topaz as a commercial network provider offering high-capacity, low-latency, next-gen, diverse networks connecting Canada and Japan,” said Allen Meeks, president and CEO of Mox.

“With the constantly evolving and insatiable focus on technology and AI, our network infrastructure and international subsea systems are integral to supporting these innovations.”

Ian Clarke, director of global submarine networking at Google added: “By offering fiber and spectrum to carriers like Mox, Google ensures that other customers can benefit directly from the work we are doing to improve global connectivity with increased reach, reliability, and resilience.”

Google’s cable uses advanced Wavelength Selective Switch (WSS) technology; a software-defined method used for spectrum slicing. WSS increases resilience and enables routing flexibility.

The Topaz cable also passes alongside Indigenous territories in Canada, including Hupacasath, Maa-nulth, and Tseshaht.

Founded in 2013, Mox is owned by Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong. Its current customer base includes hyperscalers and wireless providers. Mox’s network currently spans more than 16,000km across North America and Japan. The company provides dark fiber channels and 400G wavelengths to wholesale customers.

Other cables landing in Canada include the Connected Coast, Crosslake Fibre, Exa Express, Persona, and Sunoque I and II cables.

Google is currently on a subsea cable spree. The tech giant has launched its Pacific Connect initiative, as well as its Equiano cable. Earlier this year, Google filed an application for the Tabua subsea system. It is also planning the Proa cable, set to connect Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands with Japan.