FCC Strengthens Subsea Cable Security Amid Foreign Threat Concerns

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved a series of new security measures aimed at bolstering the protection of undersea data cable networks, citing concerns over growing threats from China and other foreign actors [1]. These measures include tighter security protocols, streamlined licensing, and a presumption of rejection for applications linked to adversarial nations. The move is part of a broader U.S. strategy to safeguard critical digital infrastructure from potential cyber and AI-driven risks.

Under the revised framework, the FCC will impose stricter standards for subsea cable security, requiring enhanced cyber and physical protections for systems connecting to U.S. shores. Entities linked to foreign governments deemed national security risks will face increased scrutiny, with an initial presumption against approval unless they can demonstrate no threat to U.S. interests [1]. The agency emphasized that the goal is not only to speed up the deployment of new cables but to ensure they are secure from espionage and sabotage.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr underscored the strategic importance of undersea cables, noting they carry nearly all global internet traffic and support over $10 trillion in daily financial transactions [1]. The agency’s actions reflect a growing concern over China’s increasing involvement in subsea infrastructure and Russia’s demonstrated capabilities in mapping and monitoring such networks. FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty highlighted the need for urgency, stating that global adversaries are well aware of the cables’ strategic value [1].

The new rules also include provisions to encourage private-sector investment and collaboration in expanding undersea network capacity to meet rising data demands. Ciena’s international CTO advised that future cable routes should be deployed in less populated, power-proximate areas, though he acknowledged the high costs and complexity of such an approach [1]. FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez added that the measures are expected to stimulate critical investments in infrastructure development beyond just streamlining the licensing process.

The FCC has a long-standing regulatory history with undersea cables, dating back to the 1950s. As of 2022, the commission reported 5.3 million Gbps of available capacity, with an expected increase to 6.8 million Gbps by 2024 [1]. To further refine its approach, the FCC has initiated a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to gather public input on additional security enhancements, including measures to promote reliance on U.S.-based cable service vessels and to advance the use of “trusted technology” abroad [1].

Analysts suggest that future regulations may bring greater oversight of foreign investments and more transparency in how companies evaluate and mitigate risks. While the current rules do not specify detailed enforcement mechanisms, they signal a clear intent to prioritize national security and infrastructure resilience in the face of evolving digital threats.

Source:

[1] https://coinmarketcap.com/community/articles/6895f9741214ff464aa18f8d/