Full Breakdown
Rising Undersea Threats to the UK: Insights from Defence Experts
2/11/2026, 6:17:44 AM
Examination of Undersea Threats
During a recent evidence session, the House of Commons Defence Select Committee addressed the escalating undersea threats facing the United Kingdom. The session featured insights from three experts: Commodore (Retd) John Aitken from Thales, Brett Phaneuf, Chief Executive of M Subs, and Professor Peter Roberts from Exeter University. They highlighted the complexities of undersea warfare and the significant risks posed by adversaries, particularly Russia.
The Nature of the Threat
The discussion emphasized the vulnerability of the UK's undersea infrastructure, which includes approximately 120 international data cables and extensive subsea systems crucial for global trade and communications. While cable cuts are common due to accidents, the more pressing concern is the potential for disruption and coercion by adversaries. Professor Roberts articulated that Russia employs a strategy of cumulative pressure rather than overt military action, targeting infrastructure to weaken societal resilience without crossing clear conflict thresholds.
Limitations of Current Technologies
Experts expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of uncrewed underwater systems. Phaneuf noted that these systems currently lack the necessary persistence and reliability, stating, “It always comes back to power and communications. That is the basic limit imposed by the physics of the ocean.” The U.S. Navy's Orca extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicle (XLUUV) program serves as a cautionary example, facing significant budget overruns and operational challenges. Commodore Aitken reinforced that crewed submarines remain essential for effective deterrence and operational capability.
Strategic Recommendations
The panel discussed the Atlantic Bastion concept, which aims to utilize uncrewed systems for North Atlantic security. However, they cautioned that this concept is still largely theoretical and dependent on technological advancements that are not yet realized. Professor Roberts suggested that a more strategic focus should be on enhancing the UK's Arctic operational capabilities to counter Russian naval forces more effectively.
UK Strengths and Future Actions
Despite the challenges, the session highlighted the UK's strengths, particularly its advanced sonar systems and extensive oceanographic knowledge. The Sonar 2076 system is recognized as one of the best globally, with its successor expected to maintain or improve performance. The UK’s comprehensive library of underwater sounds enhances its ability to detect hostile activities.
The committee underscored the urgency of addressing undersea threats, which have direct implications for national security, affecting critical services such as electricity and communications. They called for increased public awareness, investment, and legal reforms to safeguard the UK's undersea infrastructure. As Professor Roberts warned, “If we do not understand what our own seabed looks like in peacetime, we will not understand when somebody has interfered with it.”
Conclusion
The evidence session made it clear that the undersea domain is a critical front in national security, necessitating a shift in public and political perception. Without proactive measures, the UK risks facing significant challenges in securing its undersea interests against evolving threats.
