Russia threatens it could take out the West’s Internet and GPS

Russia’s Threat to Underwater Internet Infrastructure

NATO officials have raised concerns that Russia is actively mapping undersea internet cables, showcasing a potential threat to global communications and electronic infrastructure. This warning stems from Russia’s recent interference in GPS navigation systems, causing disruptions to commercial airline routes.

Medvedev’s Stark Warning

Dmitry Medvedev, the deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, has issued a stark warning, declaring that undersea cables have become legitimate targets for Russia. Medvedev based his claim on the belief that the West was involved in the Nord Stream 2 pipeline explosions. However, recent reports suggest that Ukraine may be the culprit behind the attack.

Vulnerability of Undersea Cables

Experts warn that the vast network of undersea fiber optic cables, which transmit 95% of international data, is vulnerable to hostile powers like Russia. In May, NATO’s intelligence chief warned that Russia may target the cables in retaliation for Western support of Ukraine. Disabling these cables would disrupt critical internet services, including calls, financial transactions, and streaming.

Interference with GPS Navigation

Russia has also been accused of interfering with GPS navigation systems, causing disruptions on commercial airline routes. This interference is part of Russia’s “gray zone” campaign, involving covert actions that fall below the threshold of open warfare. Experts believe that Russia may be sending a signal to the West by targeting GPS, which is vital to the airline industry.

Historical Significance of Undersea Cables

Undersea cables have been seen as potential military targets for decades, drawing surveillance from the US and USSR during the Cold War. As the world has become increasingly reliant on the internet, these cables have become even more vital. Damage or disruption to the cables would have severe consequences for nations that rely heavily on electronic communications.

NATO’s Response

NATO has taken steps to safeguard undersea cables, implementing a system to automatically warn of attempted interference. However, experts believe that more measures are needed, including government fallback plans in case systems fail entirely. Protecting undersea cables is often the responsibility of private companies, while GPS satellites often lack safeguards against interference.

Calls for International Cooperation

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has called for the US to increase international cooperation in responding to potential attacks on cables. The current legal and international framework is complex and fragmented, with no clear regime to hold perpetrators accountable for sabotage in international waters.