In a powerful open letter to the European Union, the United Kingdom, and NATO, leading European telecommunications operators and subsea cable stakeholders have sounded the alarm on the growing threats to subsea cable infrastructure.
These undersea networks, which form the backbone of Europe’s connectivity, economic stability, and defense readiness, are increasingly vulnerable to hybrid threats, including recent incidents in the Baltic and North Seas. The letter calls for urgent, coordinated action to protect these critical assets and ensure Europe’s resilience in the face of mounting geopolitical and cyber risks.
Signed by major industry players such as Vodafone, Telefónica, Orange, Telecom Italia Sparkle, and Alcatel Submarine Networks, the letter underscores the vital role subsea cables play in Europe’s digital and economic ecosystem. These cables are responsible for carrying over 95% of global internet traffic, enabling international communications, financial transactions, and critical services. Any disruption to this infrastructure could have far-reaching consequences, not just for Europe but for the entire world.
The letter commends the EU’s Action Plan on Cable Security, which outlines a framework for increasing the resilience and security of subsea cables. However, the signatories stress that more needs to be done. They call for renewed collaboration between the EU, the UK, NATO, and industry stakeholders to address the growing risks. This includes harmonizing security objectives, developing best practices, and ensuring that security measures are both operationally feasible and economically viable.
The Rising Threat to Subsea Cables
The letter highlights the increasing frequency of hybrid threats targeting subsea cables, including physical sabotage and cyberattacks. Recent incidents in the Baltic and North Seas have underscored the vulnerability of these networks, which are often located in remote and difficult-to-monitor areas. The signatories argue that the entire subsea cable ecosystem must be regarded as critical infrastructure, requiring robust security measures and significant investment in resilience.
European Telecom Companies Signing an Open Letter.
The repercussions of damage to subsea cables extend far beyond Europe. Disruptions could impact global internet connectivity, financial markets, and even military communications. As such, the letter calls for a unified approach to subsea cable security, involving not just European stakeholders but also NATO allies and other international partners.
The signatories propose several key measures to enhance subsea cable security. These include:
- Increased Investment: The letter calls for greater funding for surveillance and protection technologies, as well as the development of additional terrestrial and subsea routes to reduce vulnerability. Instruments like the EU’s Connected Europe Facility (CEF) and the European Defence Fund are highlighted as critical funding sources.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Stronger collaboration between governments, NATO, and industry stakeholders is essential for developing effective security strategies. The letter emphasizes the importance of engaging industry experts in the implementation of the EU’s Action Plan on Cable Security.
- Simplified Governance: Streamlining permitting processes and governance structures will expedite the deployment of necessary security measures. This includes aligning security objectives with operational feasibility and promoting best practices through public procurement.
- Advanced Technologies: Investment in cutting-edge technologies to detect and mitigate damage to subsea cables is critical. These technologies can improve situational awareness, enable rapid response, and strengthen repair capabilities.
The letter also calls for a robust exchange of knowledge and intelligence between stakeholders, as well as shared monitoring and surveillance initiatives. By working together, the EU, the UK, and NATO can develop collective and enduring solutions to the challenges facing subsea cable infrastructure.
A Shared Responsibility
The signatories stress that subsea cable security must be a cornerstone of broader infrastructure protection efforts. They argue that the EU’s NIS2 Directive, which focuses on cybersecurity, provides a strong foundation for addressing these challenges. However, additional measures are needed to ensure the long-term resilience of Europe’s digital lifelines.
The letter concludes with a call to action for decision-makers to prioritize subsea cable security and invest in the technologies and partnerships needed to protect these critical networks. By acting now, Europe can safeguard the infrastructure that underpins its connectivity, competitiveness, and defense readiness.
A Critical Moment for Europe
As Europe faces an increasingly complex security landscape, the protection of subsea cables has become a matter of strategic importance. The open letter from telecommunications operators and subsea cable stakeholders serves as a wake-up call for policymakers to take decisive action.
By investing in resilience and fostering collaboration, Europe can ensure the security of its digital lifelines and maintain its position as a global leader in connectivity and innovation.
Sources:
- https://www.mynewsdesk.com/rolandberger/pressreleases/global-consumer-behavior-2025-greater-optimism-leads-to-higher-spending-and-continued-growth-for-online-and-new-platforms-3380520
