Two Cables Severed Within a Week
Taiwan’s communications network faced a double blow this January when both main undersea cables connecting the Matsu Islands were severed. Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan’s largest telecommunications provider, confirmed disruptions on January 15 at 1:36 PM and January 22 at 5:34 AM. Officials attributed both incidents to “natural deterioration.”
While authorities insist there is no evidence of foul play, the timing and scale of the disruptions have sparked skepticism.
“Minimal Impact” Claims Raise Questions
Following the disruptions, Chunghwa Telecom announced that backup microwave circuits had been activated, minimizing service interruptions. Deputy Digital Minister Chiueh Herming echoed these reassurances, stating that microwave and satellite systems had ensured seamless communication.
“We observed no suspicious ships or activities when the cables failed. Natural deterioration is the most probable explanation,” Chiueh stated during a briefing.
However, critics have questioned whether the “minimal impact” narrative is an effort to downplay broader vulnerabilities in Taiwan’s communication infrastructure. With four undersea cable incidents already reported in 2025—compared to three each in 2024 and 2023—the official explanation of “natural causes” appears increasingly insufficient.
Patterns That Don’t Add Up
The government’s insistence on natural causes contrasts with a growing pattern of disruptions across the region. Undersea cable incidents have coincided with rising geopolitical tensions and an uptick in “grey zone” activities by state and non-state actors. In 2023, two cables connecting Matsu were similarly cut, temporarily severing internet access. While suspicions pointed toward Chinese-linked vessels, authorities failed to produce definitive evidence.
The timing of this year’s disruptions raises further questions. Both incidents occurred during relatively calm maritime conditions, and officials confirmed no ships were detected in the affected areas. Critics have argued that the rapid failure of two major cables within a week strains the credibility of natural deterioration as the sole cause.
Echoes of Geopolitical Sabotage Elsewhere
Recent history underscores the plausibility of deliberate interference. In December 2024, Finnish authorities detained a tanker suspected of damaging Baltic undersea cables, part of what they described as Russia’s “shadow fleet.” A month earlier, a Chinese vessel was implicated in severing data cables in the Baltic, fueling speculation about state-sponsored sabotage.
While Taiwanese officials remain cautious about attributing blame, Deputy Minister Chiueh acknowledged, “Intentional damage cannot be ruled out entirely, given the rise in incidents globally.”
Preparedness or Deflection?
In response to the latest incidents, Taiwan has emphasized its resilience measures. The Ministry of Digital Affairs highlighted the successful activation of backup systems and pledged ongoing efforts to strengthen infrastructure. Chunghwa Telecom confirmed that repair teams are working to restore full service “as swiftly as possible.”
The government is also bolstering its defense posture, with plans to involve the navy in protecting undersea cables. Additionally, Taiwan has launched pilot programs for low-Earth orbit satellites to provide alternative communication pathways.
However, skeptics argue that these measures may serve more to project confidence than address the underlying vulnerabilities. “Declaring natural deterioration as the cause without conclusive evidence raises more questions than answers,” one expert noted.
Lingering Doubts in a Tense Region
Taiwan’s official narrative of natural causes is unlikely to silence suspicions entirely. In a region already on edge due to geopolitical tensions, the abrupt failure of critical infrastructure adds to an atmosphere of uncertainty. As the repair process unfolds, the question remains: is Taiwan facing an environmental challenge or something far more calculated?
