Is the UK prepared for attacks on undersea internet cables? MPs and Lords hear evidence from security experts
How serious are the threats to the UK’s undersea internet cables, and are the Government and industry prepared?
Meeting details
On Monday 12 May, Members of the Joint Committee for the National Security Strategy will hold their first session on the risks facing the UK’s undersea cables network, and how disruption would affect the country’s economy and security.
Around 99% of the UK’s internet data is transmitted via undersea telecommunications cables. In the event of major disruption, businesses and public services that rely on real-time data could be significantly affected - including military forces and emergency services, transport, news and particularly financial services.
Most incidents have so far been accidental or relatively low-level. But concern is growing about adversaries’ capacity to target vulnerable undersea infrastructure and on-shore landing stations – both through deniable activities, and co-ordinated attacks in the event of a security crisis. The spread of underwater drone technology may also increase the number of non-state actors able to interfere with cables.
Committee members are likely to examine the UK’s reliance on undersea cables and how resilient the network is to disruption. They are also likely to explore adversaries’ options for targeting cables with low and high intensity attacks, and how well the Government is working with industry to improve deterrence, co-ordination and resilience.