In a House of Lords debate, Defence Minister Lord Coaker detailed the UK’s robust response to escalating threats against critical undersea infrastructure, particularly internet and energy cables.

The discussion followed incidents of cable sabotage in the Baltic Sea, including the arrest of the Russian-linked vessel “Eagle S” by Finnish authorities on Christmas Day.

Lord Coaker affirmed the Government’s commitment to addressing these threats through NATO collaboration and Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF) initiatives. “The UK Government are leading a number of JEF operations, including Operation Nordic Warden, which involves operations with respect to the Baltic,” he stated. He also highlighted NATO’s Baltic Sentry initiative, underscoring a united front to deter and respond to such attacks.

Growing Threats and Emerging Challenges

Several Lords raised concerns over the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure. Lord Teverson praised Finland’s swift action against the “Eagle S” and questioned whether the UK would act similarly.

Coaker responded: “Finland acted appropriately. As a member of JEF, we work closely with Finland. All of us are acting more robustly in the Baltic Sea and beyond to protect critical underwater infrastructure.”

The debate also touched on the wider implications of undersea cable attacks. Lord Stirrup pointed out the need for a comprehensive approach, combining military and civilian efforts. Coaker acknowledged: “The Ministry of Defence has taken action on other threats in the channel and North Sea. Further attention in the defence review will address resources and capabilities needed to deal with this increasing and emerging threat.”

Lord Campbell-Savours questioned the reliance on traditional defence strategies, advocating for a broader approach including satellite communications and selective sanctions.

Coaker stressed that military options remain essential: “We must deter people from doing things in the first place. The use of maritime assets, underwater drones, and NATO and JEF actions are key to protecting these vital cable links.”

UK Contributions and NATO Collaboration

Baroness Eaton raised concerns over the balance between engaging with China and addressing risks posed by Chinese entities.

Coaker reiterated the Government’s position: “We will challenge China where necessary to ensure the international rules-based order is protected, whether that is to do with critical underwater infrastructure or navigation rights.”

Lord Rogan sought clarity on protecting transatlantic cables passing through Irish Sea waters. Coaker outlined the UK’s measures: “The UK has a large number of assets, including maritime and surveillance aircraft, to protect underwater infrastructure. The defence review will suggest further actions.”

He stressed the importance of deterrence, adding: “One of the key functions of the Government is to protect the underwater infrastructure on which our livelihoods depend.”

Earl Russell highlighted recent sabotage of energy cables and interconnectors in the Baltic. Coaker responded: “We are applying artificial intelligence to predict ships that may threaten undersea cables, alongside maritime operations such as Operation Nordic Warden.”

He acknowledged the need for greater priority in addressing these challenges: “Ten years ago, we were not talking about these threats in the way we are now. The defence of our realm needs to change to meet these evolving threats.”

Baroness Goldie and other peers called for updates on UK naval assets and the planned multi-role support ship. Coaker confirmed that these assets would be addressed in the defence review and highlighted recent UK contributions to NATO operations:

“In December 2023, under the previous Government, a huge maritime collection of NATO and JEF ships was sent to the Baltic, including UK assets. Let us recognise what this country contributes to the defence of the world.”