Submarine Cable Damage in Taiwanese Waters: The Background and Future Measures
Recent incidents of submarine cables being damaged near Taiwan have once again highlighted a critical issue. A disruption in these cables not only affects daily life but also jeopardizes emergency responses. Such recurring incidents are unlikely to be mere accidents; they may represent calculated acts of aggression.
In the most recent case, the vessel responsible was registered in Hong Kong, yet its entire crew was of Chinese nationality. This mirrors numerous previous incidents and raises concerns that these acts may be part of a “gray zone operation”—a strategy operating between peace and conflict to pressure Taiwan while evading clear accountability.
Why Is This Issue Important?
Submarine cables are the lifelines of modern society. Any threat to their security directly impacts not only Taiwan’s national security but also the stability of the entire region.
Japan, too, relies heavily on submarine cables. We cannot afford to view this as someone else’s problem. Instead, this incident should serve as a crucial lesson for strengthening our own national security.
Key Facts to Consider
1.The Vessel’s Background
The ship responsible for the damage was registered in Hong Kong, but its entire crew was Chinese. This follows a pattern of provocative actions by Chinese vessels in the waters around Taiwan, including intelligence gathering and interference with fishing operations. Such incidents are unlikely to be coincidental.
2.Concerns About China’s Patent Application
Recently, China applied for a patent related to “submarine cable destruction technology.” While the stated purpose is to recover or repair damaged cables, this technology could be misused for military or malicious purposes.
If weaponized, this technology could disable the communication infrastructure of targeted nations. The international community must scrutinize the purpose and transparency of such technologies and implement regulations to prevent their misuse.
Preparing for the Future: A Multi-Faceted Approach
1. Strengthening Technological Defenses
•Deploy undersea sensors and unmanned vehicles to establish 24/7 monitoring systems.
•Install protective structures around cables and implement early-warning detection systems.
2. Promoting International Cooperation
Japan must lead efforts to protect submarine cables and take a proactive role in ensuring regional security through the following measures:
•Developing International Norms:
Japan should take the initiative to collaborate with Taiwan, the United States, Australia, and EU countries to establish international rules and norms for the protection of submarine cables. By leveraging Japan’s expertise, a regional “defensive mechanism” can be built to safeguard these critical infrastructures.
•Proposing Strict Sanctions:
Japan should advocate for strict international penalties for acts of cable sabotage, including legal enforcement through the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
•Sharing Information and Technology:
Japan should strengthen information sharing and offer surveillance technologies to Taiwan and other allied nations to enhance early-warning capabilities for undersea activities. This will also bolster Japan’s own security.
3. Harnessing Public Opinion
•Publicly disclose evidence of incidents to rally international awareness and support.
•Increase diplomatic and moral pressure on potential aggressors.
4. Developing Alternative Technologies
•Invest in satellite communication technologies to reduce dependence on submarine cables.
•Establish backup cable routes to enhance system redundancy and resilience.
Standing Together to Protect Our Future
The challenges Taiwan faces today are not isolated; they concern us all. Protecting submarine cables is tantamount to protecting peace and security.
“Defending infrastructure is defending our future.”
To prevent such incidents from recurring, we must strengthen Japan-Taiwan collaboration and work with the international community to implement concrete measures.
It is through shared understanding, collective thought, and united action that we can secure peace and stability for our region.
