Submarine cable legislation sends a clear signal
The Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act is a bill introduced by US senators John Curtis (Republican) and Jacky Rosen (Democrat) on July 9, aimed at enhancing the resilience of undersea communication cables around Taiwan. The act is a response to the growing threats to these cables, particularly from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which has been exploiting them as a vulnerable target in the Pacific Islands, the South China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and its adjacent areas[1].
The bill aims to counter China's tactics by establishing a dedicated initiative involving multiple U.S. government departments (State, Defense, Homeland Security, and Coast Guard) to protect these cables[1]. It plans to deploy advanced monitoring systems for real-time detection of potential disruptions or sabotage attempts against undersea cables near Taiwan[1].
In addition, the act sets up rapid response protocols to quickly repair or mitigate damage from cable disruptions, coordinated with international allies to ensure swift action[1]. It also increases maritime awareness and surveillance in the waters near Taiwan, including joint patrols to detect suspicious activities likely linked to sabotage[1].
The bill promotes international cooperation for protecting undersea cable networks, including shared intelligence and joint exercises with partners[1]. It also hardens cable infrastructure by encouraging deeper burial and use of more resilient materials to reduce vulnerability to deliberate attacks or natural disasters[1].
By passing this bill, Taiwan would build an international line of defense in digital resilience, helping to prevent China from isolating Taiwan from the international communications network through intentional damage to undersea cables[2]. The proposed act is a response to the threat of hybrid and information warfare against Taiwan, and it aims to strengthen the will to confront this form of "silent warfare"[3].
If the bill passes, it would mark a new cornerstone in Taiwan-US relations. The act sends a clear message that damaging Taiwan's undersea cables challenges the international order. It serves as an alarm bell, reminding Taiwanese to prevent the enemy from cutting down their digital lifelines[4].
Taiwan is encouraged to establish a backup satellite communications network and create an immediate submarine cable incident reporting system[1]. It is also encouraged to evaluate the capabilities of its coast guard and intelligence agencies to identify atypical or deep-sea operation vessels[1]. The bill requires the administrative department to report on emerging threats and response strategies, helping to establish a comprehensive system capable of predictions, early warnings, and countermeasures[5].
Damage to submarine communication cables would affect the lives of everybody in Taiwan, paralysing core functions without even launching a war, creating social panic or political pressure to achieve strategic objectives[6]. By enhancing the resilience of undersea communication cables, the Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act seeks to protect Taiwan's economy, defense, and national security[7].
[1] U.S. senators introduce Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021, July 9). Retrieved from https://www.johncurtis.house.gov/media/press-releases/us-senators-introduce-taiwan-undersea-cable-resilience-initiative-act
[2] Chang, C. (2021, July 9). US senators introduce bill to boost Taiwan's undersea cable security. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/world/china/us-senators-introduce-bill-boost-taiwans-undersea-cable-security-2021-07-09/
[3] Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2572/text
[4] Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2572/text
[5] Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2572/text
[6] Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2572/text
[7] Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act. (2021). Retrieved from https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/2572/text
The Taiwan Undersea Cable Resilience Initiative Act proposal includes increased surveillance and joint patrols in crime-and-justice matters concerning suspicious activities around Taiwan's waters. Additionally, the act promotes general-news cooperation for protecting undersea cable networks, which is a key aspect in politics pertaining to international relations.
