Taiwanese Telecom Company Detects Damage To Undersea Cable

Fiber optic cables carrying internet providers are seen running into a server room at Integrate, Manhattan, a data center owned and developed by Sabey Data Center Properties.

A Taiwanese telecoms company, Chunghwa Telecom, detected damage to an international undersea cable earlier this month. The company swiftly diverted internet traffic to maintain connectivity for customers on the island. However, suspicions arose when a 'suspicious vessel,' the Shunxin39, was observed on the same route as the damaged cable. Taiwanese Coast Guard officials suspect the Chinese-linked cargo vessel may have cut the cable, raising concerns about potential threats from Beijing.

While there is no direct evidence linking the vessel to the cable damage, radar data showed its proximity to the incident. The vessel, crewed by seven Chinese nationals and owned by a Hong Kong company, exhibited unusual behavior according to tracking data. The incident has prompted fears of 'gray zone operations' aimed at disrupting Taiwan's communications infrastructure.

Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office dismissed the allegations, calling the cable damage a 'common maritime incident.' However, analysts noted the atypical behavior of the vessel and the use of multiple positioning system numbers, suggesting a potential deliberate act.

Taiwanese authorities emphasized the need for enhanced maritime surveillance and defense of submarine cables to safeguard against future disruptions. The incident underscores the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure and the potential impact on Taiwan's digital economy and international connectivity.

Suspicious vessel Shunxin39 observed on route of damaged cable, raising concerns.

Chunghwa Telecom detected damage to undersea cable, swiftly diverted internet traffic.

Taiwanese Coast Guard suspects Chinese-linked vessel may have cut the cable.

In response to the incident, Taiwan's Ministry of Digital Affairs is exploring alternative internet options, including low-Earth-orbit satellites and additional submarine cable stations. The government is also collaborating with satellite companies to bolster communication capabilities.

Recent incidents involving Chinese and Russian vessels damaging undersea cables in various regions have raised concerns about deliberate sabotage. Analysts warn of the challenges in policing such activities, especially in international waters where enforcement is limited.

As tensions escalate in the region, Taiwan remains vigilant against potential threats to its communications infrastructure and is actively pursuing measures to enhance its resilience against future disruptions.