On May 19, 2025, a coalition of international forces embarked on a mission in Scheveningen Harbour to safeguard Europe’s critical underwater cables—vital lifelines in global digital communication.
At a Glance
- Undersea cables are crucial, carrying 99% of transoceanic digital communications and $10 trillion in transactions daily.
- These cables face threats from sabotage, espionage, and maritime activities like ship anchors.
- A significant collaborative initiative in Scheveningen Harbour aims to protect these infrastructures.
- China and Russia have been linked to undersea cable sabotage incidents.
The Importance of Undersea Cables
Undersea telecommunication cables are indispensable for global internet and communication networks. They handle an astounding 99% of transoceanic communications and facilitate $10 trillion in financial transactions every day. It’s hard to imagine our modern world functioning without these arteries of data and commerce. Yet, their importance has not escaped the attention of adversaries, making them prime targets for sabotage, as evidenced by recent incidents in the Baltic Sea.
In a world where threats are becoming more sophisticated, the vulnerabilities of these cables are alarming. Saboteurs, including those with links to Russia and China, have shown worrying capabilities and intent to target these infrastructures. NATO’s traditional focus has been on naval strength, but it now faces the imperative of adapting its strategy to shield these critical subsea assets.
International Defense and Cooperation
On the front lines of this new battleground, a green vessel in Scheveningen Harbour is at work. It scans the seabed for threats, representing the collective effort of six countries, 20 corporations, and research teams joined in purpose. It’s a proactive step forward, driven by the urgency to prevent disasters before they unfold. Rear Admiral Paul Flos remarked, “We have to be ready for it. And that’s what we’re doing here today.” This mission illustrates international resolve against an increasingly unpredictable landscape.
Collaboration between public and private entities is essential. In areas like the Pacific, where commercial viability is low, public-private partnerships (PPPs) become critical. With major players like Google, Meta, and Amazon now managing and financing these cable systems, the balance shifts towards preserving both commercial interests and global security.
Managing Maritime Risks
Maritime activities remain a significant concern. Ship anchors are responsible for about 30% of cable incidents annually. Their unintentional, yet potentially devastating impact underscores the need for stricter maritime standards and practices. The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) plays a key role in mandating and enforcing these guidelines, preventing disruptions that could ripple across continents.
“SHIP ANCHOR DAMAGE REMAINS A LEADING CAUSE OF DAMAGE GLOBALLY, PRESENTING A SIGNIFICANT AND PREVENTABLE THREAT TO SUBMARINE CABLES” – ICPC.
The initiative in Scheveningen could be a model for future efforts. As Rear Admiral Flos optimistically stated, “If it works here, it works everywhere.” The fusion of international expertise and technology is promising. It showcases a commitment to crafting a resilient network, ensuring that undersea cables continue to serve as the backbone of global communications, undeterred by the looming shadows of geopolitical tensions.
