Chinese Capabilities and Threats to Global Undersea Communications Cables

U.S. congressional testimony and a recent report from the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission have highlighted growing concerns over China's development of advanced technologies and strategies to target undersea communications cables. These cables are critical infrastructure, carrying the vast majority of global internet traffic, and are increasingly seen as vulnerable to both physical and cyber threats. The testimony and report emphasize that new Chinese innovations, such as the AJX-002 undersea drone and deep-sea cable cutting devices, have made it technologically feasible for state actors to launch coordinated attacks on multiple cables, potentially disrupting communications for entire regions like Taiwan. The U.S. is currently ill-prepared to rapidly repair or replace damaged cables due to regulatory and logistical challenges, underscoring the urgent need for policy reform and enhanced protection measures.

The Commission's report details that Chinese military-affiliated research institutions have developed and patented devices capable of severing armored cables at depths exceeding 13,000 feet. Real-world incidents have already been observed, including Chinese vessels damaging cables near Taiwan and in the Baltic Sea, with one notable case involving a ship dragging its anchor and severing two major cables in November 2024. The report warns that in the event of a conflict, particularly over Taiwan, the Chinese military is expected to target undersea cables to isolate the island. These developments represent a significant escalation in the threat landscape for global communications infrastructure, prompting calls for immediate action to strengthen the resilience and security of undersea cable networks.