A report endorsed by former military officials, including a former Defence Secretary, highlights the urgent need for the UK to develop a defence strategy against potential attacks on its undersea cables.
The UK heavily relies on subterranean cabling, particularly across the Atlantic, to support critical financial systems, data exchanges and energy supplies.
The report, published by Policy Exchange, advocates for a ‘space-to-seabed’ strategic approach, urging collaboration between government entities and private sector stakeholders to protect undersea assets.
It highlights the sophisticated strategies and capabilities for undersea warfare developed by China and Russia, stressing the necessity for equivalent efforts from the UK Government.
Sir Michael Fallon, former Secretary of State for Defence, said: “Undersea cables are now as important to the international economy as open trade routes. They underpin our financial systems, data exchanges and energy supplies.
“Britain’s economy and security are heavily dependent on its subsea connections with North America, Europe and the Middle and Far East. These are valuable targets for our global competitors: we have already seen Russian attempts to interfere with Atlantic cables.
“Countries like China are ahead of us in using sensors and unmanned vessels to protect their own networks By sounding the alarm over our extreme vulnerability, this compelling report demands that the government urgently adopt a robust strategic response across multiple theatres.”
Energy Live News has contacted the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for comment.
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