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A new device developed by Chinese scientists has the potential to disrupt global communication and energy infrastructure by cutting undersea cables and power lines located thousands of meters beneath the ocean. Unveiled by the China Ship Scientific Research Centre (CSSRC), the cutting tool is capable of severing steel-reinforced cables at depths of up to 4,000 meters, a range that surpasses current subsea infrastructure depths.
Designed for use with China’s advanced crewed and uncrewed submersibles, the tool was originally intended for benign civilian applications. However, its dual-use capabilities have raised concerns regarding global security. The ability to cut cables at strategic locations, such as near vital military bottlenecks, could significantly disrupt global communications, according to Interesting Engineering.
The tool addresses several engineering challenges presented by extreme deep-sea conditions. At depths where water pressure exceeds 400 atmospheres, the device’s titanium alloy construction and oil-compensated seals prevent damage, ensuring its durability during prolonged use. The cutting mechanism includes a 150mm diamond-coated grinding wheel spinning at 1,600 rpm, is capable of slicing through steel cables.
Energy efficiency is also a key consideration, with the device featuring a one-kilowatt motor and a gear reducer designed to balance torque and power consumption, though prolonged use may result in overheating. The tool is designed to operate remotely using robotic arms, even in near-zero visibility conditions, and incorporates advanced positioning technology to ensure precise cutting.
While the primary focus of this technology remains on marine resource development and enhancing China’s maritime capabilities, its potential for disrupting critical infrastructure cannot be overlooked. As the global reliance on undersea cables for communication and energy grows, the tool’s introduction signals a new era of technological competition in the oceans. This innovation could shift geopolitical dynamics, with nations now facing heightened security concerns over the vulnerability of their subsea networks. As a result, countries may be prompted to rethink their strategies for protecting underwater infrastructure from emerging threats.
