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Undersea Cables Under Siege: 44 Attacks in 18 Months

7/18/2025

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Summary

Threats to Undersea Cables

A chilling report from Recorded Future reveals escalating threats to undersea cables from Russia and China, especially in the Baltic Sea and near Taiwan. These crucial cables, the backbone of global internet traffic, have suffered 44 documented damage incidents in just 18 months, putting nations like Malta, Cyprus, and Ireland at significant risk.

Summary

FCC Bans Chinese Technology

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to ban Chinese technology in undersea cables linking to the U.S., a bold move to safeguard vital infrastructure from foreign espionage. Recent cable damage incidents in the Baltic Sea and Taiwan underscore the urgent need for enhanced security in our global communications network.

History

Historical Context

In 1983, the U.S. Navy's Operation Able Manner revealed vulnerabilities in undersea communication lines amid Cold War tensions. Today, over 50% of global internet traffic relies on these cables, making them strategically vital. Recent threats from Russia and China echo historical geopolitical struggles, prompting actions like the FCC's ban on Chinese technology to safeguard critical infrastructure from foreign interference.

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Threats to Undersea Cables

A chilling report from Recorded Future reveals escalating threats to undersea cables from Russia and China, especially in the Baltic Sea and near Taiwan. These crucial cables, the backbone of global internet traffic, have suffered 44 documented damage incidents in just 18 months, putting nations like Malta, Cyprus, and Ireland at significant risk.

1 / 3