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Congressional representatives

Congressman Introduces Legislation to Enhance National Security through Naval Enhancement for Protection of Telecommunications Undersea Network Equipment Act

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

U.S. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07) has introduced the NEPTUNE Act, aiming to boost national security by authorizing the procurement of two new submarine cable laying and repair ships. These ships are crucial for protecting undersea communications infrastructure, which handles 99% of international internet traffic and trillions in financial transactions daily. The current U.S. Navy's sole aging cable repair ship is nearing the end of its service life, highlighting the need for modernization.

Key Takeaways:

  • The NEPTUNE Act authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to procure two new submarine cable laying and repair ships, along with the necessary materials to operate them.
  • The bill prohibits the decommissioning of the USNS Zeus until a replacement of equal or greater capability is operational, ensuring continuity of critical undersea communications infrastructure protection.
  • The NEPTUNE Act enhances national security by safeguarding vital undersea communications infrastructure and prepares the U.S. for future maritime warfare and gray zone conflict, particularly in scenarios involving China and Taiwan.
  • Congressman Miller emphasizes the bill's significance in protecting America's critical infrastructure and ensuring preparedness for critical situations.
  • The legislation gears up for potential conflicts involving undersea communications, a critical aspect of modern international relations.
  • Rep. Miller's experience in the Marine Corps Reserves and his roles in the Trump administration provide valuable perspectives on the Navy's capabilities and the need for modernization.
  • The NEPTUNE Act's focus on national security, economic stability, and critical infrastructure development highlights the complex interplay between domestic and foreign policy.

Statistics:

  • 99% of international internet traffic is dependent on undersea cables daily.
  • Trillions in financial transactions are handled via undersea cables daily.
  • The U.S. Navy currently has just one aging cable repair ship.
  • National security and critical infrastructure development are emphasized in the legislation.
  • 17% of the U.S. economy is reliant on the internet and online commerce (Source: ITIF, 2020).
  • The Congressional Budget Office estimates that the NEPTUNE Act will incur approximately $2 billion in initial costs for the procurement and development of the new ships.

Sources:

  • Office of Ohio Rep. Max Miller (no date)
  • U.S. House of Representatives website (no date)
  • ITIF (Institute for Technology Innovation and Progress) publication 'The Internet Economy' (2020).

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