Taiwan Activates Backup Comms for Outlying Island After Undersea Cable Snaps

Taiwan has moved swiftly to restore essential communications to its northernmost territory, Dongyin island, after a critical undersea cable was severed. The incident, attributed to shifting ship wreckage in poor weather, highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the island's vital links to the mainland.

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The vulnerability of undersea communication cables linking Taiwan with its outlying islands has been a persistent cause of concern for Taipei, whose government has on several occasions blamed Chinese ships for intentionally causing damage.

Dongyin, a strategically vital island with a significant military presence and a population of around 1,500, is particularly susceptible to disruptions given its reliance on ferry services and the single undersea cable connection. The Ministry of Digital Affairs confirmed the break, which severed links to the nearby Matsu islands, and immediately activated a microwave backup system to maintain voice and internet services.

This event reignites concerns over the security of undersea cables, a persistent issue for Taipei, which has previously accused Chinese vessels of intentionally damaging such infrastructure. While the current incident is officially attributed to weather and wreckage, the proximity to the Chinese coast and past accusations lend a layer of geopolitical tension to the situation.

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A microwave communication backup system has been activated, transferring voice communications and internet services, with mobile phone, voice, and data internet services on Dongyin operating normally.

The Ministry has assured that mobile and data services are operational, though cable television and some internet services may face minor delays. Chunghwa Telecom is undertaking repairs, with an estimated completion by the end of July, contingent on favorable weather conditions. This incident underscores Taiwan's efforts to bolster communication resilience, especially in light of potential conflict scenarios with China, including trials of low-Earth-orbit satellite technology for remote areas.

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Repairs to the cable by Chunghwa Telecom are expected to be completed by the end of July, though that will depend on weather conditions, the ministry said.