Vulnerability of world cable communications

Nature

There is an ever present hazard of damage to the many thousands of miles of submarine cable resting on the floors of the oceans of the world. Damage may be caused by fishing trawl gear or ships' anchors, earthquakes, volcanoes, exploitation of sea-bed resources or deliberate sabotage. Such cables carry several thousand telephone conversations simultaneously, together with telex, telegraph and data signals. They are costly and difficult to repair, particularly in mid-ocean.

Incidence

According to TeleGeography, over 99% of international data traffic relies on approximately 552 active submarine cables spanning more than 1.4 million kilometers as of 2023. These cables are highly concentrated along specific routes, making global communications vulnerable to accidental damage, natural disasters, and deliberate sabotage. Incidents of cable faults occur regularly, with dozens reported annually, often resulting in significant disruptions to internet and telecommunications services in affected regions.
In February 2023, multiple undersea cables were severed near Marseille, France, disrupting internet connectivity across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The incident, suspected to be sabotage, caused widespread slowdowns and outages, highlighting the fragility of global cable infrastructure.

Claim

The vulnerability of world cable communications is a critical issue that demands urgent attention. As our global economy and security increasingly rely on undersea cables, any disruption—be it from natural disasters, cyberattacks, or geopolitical tensions—could cripple communication and commerce. This fragile infrastructure is the backbone of our interconnected world, and its susceptibility poses a significant threat to national security and economic stability. We must prioritize safeguarding these vital networks to ensure a resilient future.

Counter-claim

The notion that the vulnerability of world cable communications is a pressing issue is vastly overstated. In an age of advanced technology and robust cybersecurity measures, the likelihood of catastrophic failures is minimal. The global economy and communication networks are resilient, adapting swiftly to challenges. Focusing on this perceived vulnerability distracts from more pressing issues, such as climate change and social inequality. Let’s prioritize real problems instead of succumbing to unfounded fears about cable communications.