News
The FCC has continued on their path of prioritizing protection of underwater fiber infrastructure from perceived threats posed by China.
Source: Noah Wire Services
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is gearing up to implement stringent new rules designed to bar companies from linking underwater communication cables containing Chinese technology or equipment to the United States.
Underwater cables form a critical backbone of global communications, carrying 99% of international internet traffic, and safeguarding this infrastructure has become a pressing priority.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr emphasized that threats to underwater cable infrastructure from foreign actors have become increasingly apparent in recent years. The planned regulations will prohibit the use or connection of underwater communications cables that incorporate equipment or services from companies considered national security risks, such as Huawei, ZTE, China Telecom, and China Mobile. This regulatory approach builds upon earlier FCC considerations from 2023 and an ongoing effort to address vulnerabilities related to data flows managed by foreign entities.
New tensions sparked by recent events
Recent incidents have also underscored the vulnerability of undersea cables to physical sabotage or interference. Investigations were launched after the damage to two underwater cables in the Baltic Sea, with suspicions of deliberate acts. Taiwan accused Chinese vessels of cutting the only two undersea cables serving its Matsu Islands, while attacks by the Houthi movement in the Red Sea have been linked to damage causing disruptions to internet connectivity across Europe and Asia.
The commission is additionally working on regulations designed to streamline the licensing for major U.S. technology firms like Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon, provided they adhere to rigorous security standards.
While the FCC stresses the need for protective measures, the Chinese government advocates for a “rational perception” of China, urging cooperation to maintain stable bilateral relations.
Total Telecom is trialing AI tools for content generation. Please flag any errors!
Get content like this delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to the Broadband Communities newsletter.
