China develops technology to 'cut cables on the deep seabed'.

This Chinese technology immediately attracted public attention, particularly as it raised concerns about its potential to disrupt underwater communication networks and global energy infrastructure.

China's underwater cable-cutting technology truly poses a threat to international fiber optic cables.

This device was developed by the China Society for Shipbuilding Science Research Center (CSSRC) and the State Key Laboratory for Deep-Sea Manned Vehicles. Its target is armored cables, which are used to transmit 95% of global data. With the ability to cut cables at depths up to 4,000 meters—twice the depth of existing communications infrastructure—this tool is designed to integrate with China's advanced manned and unmanned submarines, including the Fendouzhe (Striver) and Haidou series.

Although initially developed for civilian rescue and seabed exploration purposes, the potential for dual use of this equipment has raised concerns among many nations. Cutting the cable near strategic points like Guam—which is crucial to the U.S. military's defense strategy—could also lead to disruptions in global communications and trigger a geopolitical crisis.

How China implements underwater cable-cutting technology.

According to the research team led by engineer Hu Haolong, the device's design successfully addressed many technical challenges posed by deep-sea conditions. With water pressure exceeding 400 ATM at a depth of 4,000 meters, the device's titanium alloy casing and oil-filled cushioning prevent explosions during prolonged use. To cut steel-reinforced cables, the research team developed a 150 mm diameter diamond-coated grinding wheel rotating at 1,600 rpm, generating enough force to break the steel without disturbing the seabed sediment.

Underwater fiber optic cable experiences another outage, affecting Vietnam's internet.

This device is designed for submarines with limited power sources, featuring a one-kilowatt motor and an 8:1 gear reducer for efficient torque balancing. Operated by a robotic arm in near-zero visibility conditions, the device also incorporates advanced positioning technology to ensure precise alignment.

The launch of this device marks a significant step in expanding China's presence in underwater infrastructure. Beijing currently operates the world's largest submarine fleet, capable of accessing all areas of the ocean. The new cable-cutting device can be operated from stealth drones, allowing for operation without surfacing.

Chinese scientists claim the device is designed to support "marine resource development," but this breakthrough could also help China solidify its position as a maritime power and promote a green economy to achieve its long-term national goals.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/trung-quoc-phat-trien-cong-nghe-cat-cap-duoi-day-bien-sau-185250325215959813.htm