Safeguarding Undersea Cables: EU's New Action Plan

The European Commission plans to enhance the surveillance and security of undersea cables, outlining measures to prevent, detect, and respond to damage. Efforts include development of a fleet for cable repairs, increased surveillance mechanisms, and cooperation with NATO to protect critical infrastructure vital for Europe's economy and security.

The European Commission unveiled a strategic action plan on Friday aimed at bolstering the security and surveillance of undersea cables. This plan addresses recent concerns surrounding incidents of damage to power, telecom, and gas pipelines, which are suspected to be intentional.

Henna Virkkunen, the European Commission's executive vice president for security, emphasized the importance of equipping Europe to prevent, detect, and respond to sabotage threats. Swedish police are currently investigating a suspected sabotage of a telecom cable in the Baltic Sea, and NATO has increased protection measures by deploying frigates and drones.

The action plan includes developing a surveillance mechanism and a drone program while encouraging collaboration with NATO to safeguard undersea infrastructure. The Commission also aims to secure a reserve fleet for emergency cable repairs and increase the resilience of critical infrastructure.

(With inputs from agencies.)