HOW CAN WE SECURE OR PROTECT A SUBMARINE CABLE BY DEREK CASSIDY:

Understanding the Vital Role and Vulnerabilities of Submarine Cables

Submarine cables form the backbone of global communication, transmitting over 99% of the world’s data, including internet and telecommunication traffic, and electrical power between countries. These cables are essential not only for digital connectivity but also for international economic stability and security. Despite their importance, submarine cables face multiple threats ranging from natural disasters to targeted sabotage by state and non-state actors.

Recent Threats and Industry Response

Recent activities in the Baltic and Irish seas have raised alarms over the security of these undersea assets. Reports of unusual naval activities, particularly involving Russian vessels in the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), have led to suspicions of intentional mapping and potential sabotage. These events underscore the strategic importance of these cables and the potential catastrophic impact of their disruption.

The submarine cable industry, supported by military alliances and government bodies, has intensified efforts to safeguard these critical infrastructures. A prime example is the implementation of AI-driven monitoring systems by the Joint Expeditionary Force, in collaboration with NATO. These systems aim to detect disturbances and potential threats to cable integrity, although they focus more on risk identification than on direct protection.

Technologies and Strategies for Cable Protection

Monitoring Techniques: To combat threats, the industry employs sophisticated monitoring techniques. Impedance testing and optical monitoring are crucial for identifying and locating cable faults. Technologies such as Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) and Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDR) provide continuous surveillance of cable conditions, enabling operators to respond swiftly to any signs of damage or tampering.

Challenges in Comprehensive Protection: Despite advances in monitoring technology, the industry consensus is that it remains technically unfeasible to completely secure submarine cables from all forms of aggression or accidents. The vast expanse of the ocean and the isolated nature of cables make it impractical to guard every segment. As a result, the focus remains on enhancing detection and rapid response mechanisms rather than full-proof protection.

Looking Forward: International Cooperation and Research

The ongoing challenges in securing submarine cables highlight the need for more extensive research and international collaboration. Conferences sponsored by bodies like the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) and discussions under the United Nations' ITU-T are seeking to develop new strategies for improving cable resilience. The goal is to establish a unified global approach that can mitigate risks and ensure the continuity of the vital services provided by these undersea cables.

To read the complete article, check out Issue 141 of the Sub Tel Forum Magazinehere