US Adopts Submarine Cable Rules to Address China Security Risk

In a decisive move aimed at bolstering national security, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has introduced new regulations focused on the deployment and protection of undersea data cables. This initiative comes in response to escalating concerns regarding threats from China and other foreign adversaries. The FCC's approach underscores the significance of the global network of subsea cables, which are crucial for carrying approximately 99% of the world's internet traffic and facilitating over $10 trillion in daily financial transactions. These cables have long been indispensable to international communication, yet their strategic importance renders them susceptible to risks such as sabotage and espionage. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr articulated the intentions behind the new rules, stating, “We not only want to unleash the deployment of new undersea cables — we want to make sure those cables are secure.” He emphasized that recent years have seen threats directed at submarine cable infrastructure from countries like China. The newly adopted regulations aim to streamline the licensing process for cable installations while simultaneously imposing stricter security protocols. Companies linked to foreign governments deemed as national security risks will face a presumption of denial for license applications, meaning they will need to demonstrate that their projects do not pose a security threat to the United States. Enhanced cybersecurity measures and physical security protocols will also be mandated for all cables landing on U.S. territory. This regulatory shift is part of a broader strategy to diminish China's influence in critical technologies. With more than 1.4 million kilometers of subsea cables worldwide, these infrastructures remain vulnerable to both natural disasters and human activities, such as anchor drags from ships. FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty highlighted the inherent vulnerabilities of subsea cables, noting, “Subsea cables are uniquely vulnerable to espionage, sabotage, and surveillance.” She warned that global adversaries, including China, are rapidly advancing their investments in undersea infrastructure while Russia's military capabilities allow it to track and map cable routes. Trusty concluded by stressing the urgency of these developments, declaring that the importance of the new order cannot be overstated.