TyCom, Dishnet in talks for undersea cable

NEW DELHI: US-based TyCom Ltd., an undersea cables company is in talks with
Chennai-based Dishnet DSL for a possible alliance for providing capacity in its
undersea cable network. Dishnet had recently announced the setting up of an
undersea cable network from Chennai to Guam via Singapore. Tycom is also in the
process of setting up its presence in the Trans-Pacific from Guam to the US West
Coast.

Speaking about the alliance, Dishnet managing director, sales and
marketing-Asia Pacific, Rajesh Kheny said, "We do not yet know the nature
of the alliance with Dishnet. It could be a tie-up or a joint venture but we do
certainly want to provide capacity to Dishnet on the Trans-Pacific route."

TyCom is also exploring the possibilities of talking to the SingTel-Bharti
undersea project as well as the Reliance-Star Hub Malaysia cable project. Adds
Kheny, "We are bullish about India and plan to set up our marketing office
in the country in the beginning of next year."

TyCom meanwhile has launched another initiative that would provide repair
services to damaged undersea cables. There will be special TyCom ships dedicated
to the repair and maintenance of undersea cables.