Congressman August Pfluger has introduced the "Undersea Cable Security and Protection Act" in Washington, D.C. The bill aims to create an interagency working group with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Communications Commission to enhance the security, resilience, and integrity of undersea cables.
Pfluger, who serves as chairman of the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence, emphasized the importance of these cables for global telecommunications. He stated that adversaries are aware of their strategic significance but noted that they remain under-protected. "Almost all global telecommunications rely on undersea cables. Our adversaries know their strategic importance, yet these cables remain significantly under-protected," Pfluger remarked.
He expressed concern over threats from countries like China, Russia, Iran, and proxy terrorist groups such as the Houthis. "With mounting threats of espionage, sabotage, and cyberattacks from adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran, and proxy terrorist groups such as the Houthis, it is critical that we act now to safeguard this indispensable infrastructure," Pfluger said. He stressed that his legislation aims to address these issues before it becomes too late.
Undersea cables facilitate 99 percent of telecommunications activity across oceans. They play a crucial role in financial services and internet connectivity. Any threat—accidental or intentional—to this sector could significantly impact global commerce and military communications.
While most destructive incidents involving undersea cables occur accidentally, there is growing concern about increased aggression by America's adversaries against critical infrastructure and cyberspace vulnerabilities. Recent reports have highlighted increased Russian military activity near strategic U.S. undersea cables.