Overview

• The FCC’s proposal would bar equipment from Chinese firms on its ‘‘unacceptable risk’’ list from being used in undersea cable systems.
• Flagged companies would also be barred from receiving licenses to build or operate cables that connect to U.S. shores.
• Submarine cables carry over 95% of global internet traffic, making them prime targets for espionage and cyber interference.
• Chair Brendan Carr unveiled the plan on July 16 and scheduled the commission’s vote on the rules for August 7, 2025.
• The agency is seeking public comment on additional safeguards to protect subsea cables from cyber and physical threats.