The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to vote on new regulations aimed at enhancing the security of submarine cables connecting the United States to international communications networks. These changes are designed to thwart foreign interference, streamline repair processes, and incorporate AI-driven improvements. While trusted suppliers will enjoy expedited licensing, equipment from companies like Huawei and ZTE will face strict scrutiny and additional security measures.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr emphasized the necessity of these rules due to threats related to foreign ownership and cyber vulnerabilities, with a particular focus on China. Under the proposed regulations, license applications meeting stringent security standards would bypass the lengthy Team Telecom review process. Conversely, cables utilizing high-risk technology from specific Chinese companies would face presumed denial, heightened security protocols, and limitations on leasing capacity.
The urgency for these measures is underscored by several incidents: Two fiber-optic lines in the Baltic Sea were deliberately cut in 2024, according to investigators, seemingly by a passing vessel. Taiwan also reported Chinese ships severing cables serving the Matsu Islands in 2023. Meanwhile, suspected Houthi attacks have disrupted Red Sea lines. These events highlight the critical role of over 400 undersea cables that handle about 99 percent of global internet traffic.
U.S. skepticism towards Chinese telecom equipment isn’t new. Since 2019, Huawei and ZTE have been banned from U.S. terrestrial networks. However, avoiding equipment from these major suppliers remains challenging, especially for undersea systems where Chinese companies are pivotal players in a global supply chain.
Should these rules be adopted, they would revamp the FCC’s licensing approach, which has already halted several proposed Hong Kong connections since 2020. The Commission will also seek public input on potential further actions, like mandatory cybersecurity standards and tighter restrictions on blacklisted vendors. The vote is anticipated in their upcoming open meeting.
