The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: A Guidebook for the Next Two Administrations

A strategy playbook for securing the world’s most critical network infrastructure

Addressing the vulnerabilities and geopolitical challenges associated with subsea fiber-optic cables, aiming to provide U.S. policymakers with a comprehensive strategy to secure this critical infrastructure.

This project is made possible with funding from the Smith Richardson Foundation.

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Photo: ZU_09/Getty Images

Photo: ZU_09/Getty Images

Redundancy, Resiliency, and Repair: Securing Subsea Cable Infrastructure

As digital dependency grows worldwide, the United States, its partners, and the private sector must ensure a resilient global subsea cable system. This report provides a roadmap to overcome vulnerabilities and regulatory challenges in the sector.

Report by Erin L. Murphy — November 21, 2025

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Photo: ZU_09/Getty Images

Securing Subsea Cable Infrastructure

As digital dependency grows worldwide, the United States, its partners, and the private sector must ensure a resilient global subsea cable system. This report provides a roadmap to overcome vulnerabilities and regulatory challenges in the sector.

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The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Egypt Case Study

The concentration of subsea cables funneled through the narrow Red Sea cements Egypt’s status as a global hub and chokepoint. Strategic and economic choices to enhance commercial appeal can secure Egypt’s continued position as a digital gateway between continents. 

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — November 12, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Singapore Case Study

Singapore’s location, pro-business regulations, and forward-planning have made it a global hub to be emulated for data movement and subsea cables; however, its limited space constrains future prospects in an increasingly tense geopolitical region, demanding key next steps.

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — September 24, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Japan Case Study

Japan, an island nation dependent on subsea cables and a nexus for Asia-North America communications, faces many risks amid regulatory slog and geopolitical tensions. It must leverage its industry leadership and global partnerships to secure this critical infrastructure.

Report by Erin L. Murphy and Thomas Bryja — August 26, 2025

The Strategic Future of Subsea Cables: Ireland Case Study

As Ireland finds its strategic position no longer shielded from evolving geopolitical forces, this paper analyzes Ireland's subsea cable infrastructure— a lynchpin and chokepoint in worldwide connectivity— for key risks and presents recommendations for greater resilience.

Report by Romina Bandura and Thomas Bryja — July 23, 2025

Securing the Subsea Network: A Primer for Policymakers

Subsea cables are the world’s information super-highways. This guide for policymakers describes how these essential systems work and offers recommendations for advancing U.S. economic and strategic interests.

Report by Jonathan E. Hillman — March 9, 2021