Beneath the Waves: The Critical Role of Submarine Fiber Optic Cables in Global Connectivity
Explore the undersea realm of fiber optic cables—a vital link for global connectivity. Delve into dominance, vulnerabilities, and fierce competition shaping this unseen force in modern globalization.
Summary:
Introduction
The Unseen Backbone
Masters of the Deep
Vulnerabilities and Fragilities
Geopolitical Chessboard
Rise of China
Corporate Giants' Ascent
Conclusion
Introduction
The world's dependence on instant connectivity has given rise to a silent yet indispensable force beneath the ocean's surface—submarine fiber optic cables. Deployed by both private enterprises and governments, these cables facilitate ultra-fast communications between continents, rendering us potentially vulnerable and sparking geopolitical and commercial battles.
Src: Statista
The Unseen Backbone
The first submarine cable was laid in 1851, connecting Dover to Cap Gris-Nez, revolutionizing financial transactions between London and Paris. Fast forward to today, and a web of 428 cables, totaling over 1.3 million kilometers, crisscrosses the ocean floor, connecting major hubs in Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. Notably, Microsoft and Facebook's MAREA cable, stretching 6,400 km, boasts the highest data capacity, exemplifying the exponential growth of internet traffic.
Src: Converge Digest
The Amitie cable is over 6,800km long and with 16 fibre pairs has a capacity of 400 Tbps. This makes it the highest capacity transoceanic communications cable ever deployed.(Capacity Media)
Masters of the Deep
Three major private entities—French Alcatel Submarine Networks, U.S.-based TE SubCom, and Japan's NEC—dominate the submarine cable market. They collectively control a $2 billion industry, with 99% of digital data flowing through these undersea lifelines.
Src: Quora
Fiber optic lines transmit data as pulses of laser light. As with terrestrial fiber optic lines, using multiple frequencies of light — colors, to you and me — means more data can be sent at once. (cnet)
Vulnerabilities and Fragilities
While vital, submarine cables face vulnerabilities. Physical threats such as trawler interference, tsunamis, and even shark bites can disrupt connectivity. The 2006 Taiwan earthquake severed cables, causing a temporary halt to regional financial exchanges. Upgrades and replacements are essential to cope with our insatiable demand; by 2017, 27,000 new kilometers were added.
Src: reasearch gate
Geopolitical Chessboard
The strategic importance of these cables is evident as they form the backbone of internet traffic, particularly in the U.S., where 80% of data flows. The U.S. has ten of the thirteen root servers and major tech giants, establishing its influence. The Five Eyes alliance (U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand) has monitored cable landing points for decades, revealing the interconnectedness of surveillance and global data transmission.
Src: Facebook
Five Eyes, abbreviated FVEY for classification, refers to the intelligence alliance of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. (Wikipedia)
Rise of China
China, recognizing the strategic value of submarine cables, has entered the arena aggressively. With major players like Huawei leading the charge, China has laid cables worldwide, challenging U.S. dominance. However, concerns about Huawei's influence and potential security risks have led to pushback, as seen in Australia's rejection of a cable project.
Src: Asia Financial
Corporate Giants' Ascent
Tech titans such as Google, Facebook, and Microsoft are now investing in private cables, further consolidating their control. Google's Dunant cable connects the U.S. to France, underscoring the shift toward corporate dominance in shaping the future of global connectivity.
Src: Le Monde
Conclusion
As we surf the waves of digital transformation, submarine fiber optic cables emerge as the unsung heroes of our interconnected world. From geopolitics to corporate strategies, their silent presence beneath the seas shapes the course of modern globalization. As we peer into the depths, one cannot help but wonder—what future battles and breakthroughs will be waged in this invisible arena?Wolrd
How secure are the undersea cables that power our digital world?
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Datas from: ARTE