Russia's underwater activity is a threat to telecommunications cables

The new head of the British Armed Forces, Admiral Tony Radakin, warned Russia of attempts to cut down key underwater telecommunications cables, which could be considered an act of war. In an interview with "The Times", Radakin expressed his concern about the increase in Russian underwater activity.

„In the last 20 years, an amazing increase in the activity of Russian submarines and Russian submarine activity," said Radakin. He explained that Russia's underwater program includes not only submarines, but also the ability to threaten the world's information system, which is submarine cables. "This is what all world news is about. Russia has increased its ability to threaten these offshore cables and their potential use."

When asked if the destruction of cables would be considered an act of war, he replied, "Possibly so."

Almost all data traffic is transmitted through underwater cables. Many of these cables serving Britain are located in the Atlantic, where Russian submarines are increasingly operating. "The Times" cites sources in the navy that estimate that by damaging submarine cables, Russia can effectively destroy the opponent's economy. "Would this be a particularly good way to make our lives more difficult in the event of World War III? That's why they do it. If you destroy the cables, no one will be able to conduct telephone calls, you will not be able to conclude business transactions, buy shares, and the economy will stop."

Radakin also expressed concern about the possibility of Russian invasion of Ukraine. Britain and other Western countries, including the US, have repeatedly warned Russian President Vladimir Putin of the serious consequences of sanctions if he decides on military aggression. "There will be talks next week between Russia and the US and NATO, but from a military point of view the situation is deeply worrying."

The Admiral has revealedthat he has presented "military options" to ministers in the event of Russia's possible invasion of Ukraine, while stressing the need to develop hypersonic missiles so that Britain can compete with Russia's growing military force. "We don't have them, and we need them," he said.

Radakin stressed that Moscow invests heavily in underwater programs, "super" missiles such as hypersonics and long-range rockets, as well as air defense systems that prevent aircraft from other countries from flying near strategic sites.

Written by Bartłomiej Niedziński/PAP