The Last Word with Matt Cooper The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Under Sea Cables: The Battle For Supremacy At The Bottom Of The World

Oct 13, 2026 · 12m

Summary

Elizabeth Braw discusses her book *The Undersea War*, highlighting the critical role of subsea cables in global digital connectivity and their vulnerability to sabotage. She addresses emerging threats, including potential Iranian tolls in the Strait of Hormuz and recent incidents in the Baltic Sea. Braw emphasizes Ireland’s status as a key cable junction and warns that its neglect of maritime security poses a significant risk. She advises Ireland to strengthen naval patrols and collaborate with regional partners like the Joint Expeditionary Force to protect these vital infrastructure assets.

Topics discussed

Introduction to guest and book 'The Undersea War' Threats in Strait of Hormuz and cable tolls What subsea cables transmit and their history Methods of cable damage and protection challenges Recent incidents in Baltic and Taiwan regions Ireland's strategic importance as a cable hub Ireland's reliance on globalization and connectivity Recommendations for Irish national security and defense Satellites vs subsea cables and closing remarks
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