C3S ISSUE BRIEF XV: THE CHINESE INFLUENCE ON UNDER SEA CABLES AND THE INDIAN COUNTER-BALANCE

By Kirsten Wilfred Coelho, Research Intern, C3S

Guided by Commodore R S Vasan, Director General, C3S

Image Courtesy: SCMP

Abstract:

Undersea cables make up a key component of global internet communications, and the Chinese state has succeeded in expanding its global footprint via diplomatic measures involving this infrastructure. This approach comes under the Digital Silk Route programme and broader Belt and Road Initiative, and has come under the scrutiny of multiple countries, with several cautioning against possible Chinese attacks and sabotage attempts. The global legal framework with regard to undersea cables, including laws such as UNCLOS, remains incomplete, with several nations lacking stringent measures to punish cable severance incidents. India has undertaken the matter with a corporate-based approach wherein several consortium members make investments, but cable-accident investigations are carried out by the national Naval forces. This paper hypothesises that China holds the ability to weaponise its global undersea cable infrastructure, and while nations like India are prepared for such threats, there is a need for stronger legislation with regard to the matter. 

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(Kirsten Wilfred Coelho  is a research intern at C3S. The views expressed here are of the author's and do not reflect the views of C3S.)