Irish Subsea Cables at Risk from Cyber Attacks, Hybrid Threats, Geopolitical Tensions
Ireland's subsea cable network faces significant risks from cyber attacks, hybrid threats, and geopolitical tensions, according to Minister Helen McEntee. Protection of this critical infrastructure is vital for national security, prosperity, and connectivity. A strategy is being implemented to address these evolving threats.
Helen McEntee, Minister for Defence and Foreign Affairs, stated that Ireland's subsea cable network is vulnerable to cyber attacks, hybrid threats, and geopolitical tensions. Speaking at the second subsea cable security and resilience symposium in Valentia, Co Kerry, McEntee emphasized that protecting this network is central to Ireland's national security.
The symposium is held in Valentia, where the first transatlantic cable was laid in 1858 between Ireland and Newfoundland, Canada. This historical link transformed communication and trade. Today, the geopolitical environment is more threatening; for example, in November 2024, the Russian vessel Yantar, considered a spy ship by Western intelligence, was tracked within 60km of Ireland's east coast, raising concerns about subsea cable security.
McEntee highlighted that subsea cables carry the vast majority of global data, underpinning financial systems and public services. She noted that Ireland's prosperity, connectivity, and energy security depend on the integrity of this undersea infrastructure. A strategy to protect the cable network is being implemented, addressing evolving risks that demand a coordinated response. Delegates from 15 countries, including the US and Japan, are attending the symposium.