FCC tightens rules on foreign firms building undersea cables, citing security

The FCC adopted new rules to secure U.S.-licensed submarine cables, including presumptive denial of foreign adversary-controlled applicants, restrictions on capacity leasing, bans on covered equipment, and new physical and cybersecurity requirements. The order aims to protect critical undersea infrastructure amid rising risks—from accidents to cybersecurity threats and cable-cutting techniques—while balancing national security with streamlined processes to support rapid infrastructure expansion; there are currently 90 licensed cable systems and significant growth is anticipated.