A coalition of key European telecoms and infrastructure companies, including Vodafone and Orange, is urging intensified efforts to protect subsea cable infrastructure. They implore the EU, UK, and NATO to coordinate actions, citing increasing hybrid threats that put Europe’s connectivity and security at risk.
The open letter from companies also highlights recent incidents in the Baltic and North Seas as causes for concern. These cables are vital for maintaining Europe’s connectivity, economic stability, defense readiness, and competitiveness. Therefore, the letter calls for greater collaboration among authorities and industry stakeholders across borders.
Key to their proposal is Europe’s Action Plan on Cable Security, described as a crucial method to boost subsea cable resilience and security. They urge support for the European Commission’s initiative to classify Critical Projects of European Interest and utilize protection technologies. The Connected Europe Facility (CEF) is noted for its strategic importance, alongside potential contributions from UK and NATO instruments.
To ensure effective security, the letter suggests that harmonized, risk-based practices should be developed, recognizing the subsea cable ecosystem as critical infrastructure. Simplified governance and permitting processes could expedite necessary actions.
Recent geopolitical tensions underscore the urgency. In a provocative incident, a Russian intelligence vessel mapped the UK’s underwater infrastructure. The UK Defence Secretary remarked, “I also want President Putin to hear this message: we see you, we know what you are doing, and we will not shy away from robust action to protect this country.”
Despite these tensions, many industry experts caution against jumping to conclusions. Accidents remain the primary cause of cable damage. Mike Conradi, of DLA Piper, notes that deliberate sabotage involving multiple cables would resemble an overt attack rather than isolated incidents.
