The UK’s National Security Strategy Committee has identified vulnerabilities in about 50 active undersea cables, which are crucial for internet and financial data transmission, and warns that these could be targeted by foreign adversaries like Russia amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Experts warn that coordinated attacks on these cables could cause widespread internet blackouts, disrupt payment systems, and overwhelm emergency services, posing a significant threat to billions of dollars in cross-border trade.

Critics argue that the UK government and MPs have not taken sufficient measures to defend this vital infrastructure, calling for stronger deterrence, punitive actions, and increased physical protections.

The committee urges the government to enhance physical security, impose genuine costs for malicious activities, and develop comprehensive recovery plans to ensure national resilience against potential attacks.

The report criticizes the government for being too timid in defense preparations and recommends more robust deterrence strategies, including higher fines, criminal liability, and increased interception of suspicious vessels.

The government has yet to respond to these concerns, despite the clear need for improved security measures.

Existing efforts, such as the Nordic Warden system, RFA Proteus, and Atlantic Bastion, are part of ongoing initiatives to protect offshore infrastructure, but critics say these are not enough given the deteriorating security environment.

The committee recommends that the UK acquire its own cable repair ship by 2030 to reduce reliance on international resources, and establish a Royal Navy reserve trained for repairs during conflicts.

While routine damage from fishing vessels is manageable, rising geopolitical tensions increase the risk of targeted sabotage, which could cause widespread chaos and economic disruption.

Experts like Alan Mendoza and Richard Tice emphasize the urgency of proactive measures, warning that sabotage could lead to significant chaos and economic damage.

Recommendations include implementing stronger deterrence measures such as hefty fines, criminal charges, and enhanced vessel monitoring and interception capabilities.

A significant threat involves civilian vessels dragging anchors over seabed cables, which could cause major damage and disrupt vital internet and financial data flows.

Committee chairman Matt Western stressed the importance of protecting these cables, describing them as the 'invisible backbone of the internet,' and called for better physical security, early warning systems, and comprehensive recovery plans.