Federal Register #2026-13765

FCC Issues New Rules for Submarine Cable Landing Licenses and Reporting

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced the implementation of new rules and reporting requirements for submarine cable landing licenses and related infrastructure: - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) - Scope of Rules: - Clarifies when a submarine cable landing license is required under the Cable Landing License Act - Updates application requirements and definitions for submarine cable landing licenses - Adopts definitions related to foreign adversaries to enhance national security - Key Requirements: - Prohibits licensees from entering into arrangements that could allow foreign adversaries to control Submarine Line Terminal Equipment (SLTE) at U.S. landing points - Requires licensees identified as foreign adversaries or on the FCC's Covered List to file a Foreign Adversary Annual Report - Modernizes annual international circuit capacity reporting, requiring detailed information on SLTEs, fiber pairs, spectrum, and management entities - Mandates certifications and enhanced reporting for national security purposes - Applicability: - Requirements apply to all submarine cable owners, operators, and Filing Entities regulated by the FCC - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; requirements are broad and apply to all relevant entities - Notable Aspects: - Focus on national security, regulatory clarity, and enhanced oversight of submarine cable infrastructure - Prohibition of certain capacity lease arrangements involving foreign adversaries

Description

The Federal Communications Commission announces the effective date of new information collection requirements under OMB Control Numbers 3060-1156 and 3060-0944 as adopted in FCC 25-49. The rules clarify when a submarine cable landing license is required, update application requirements, and adopt foreign adversary definitions to protect national security. Licensees are prohibited from certain arrangements that could give foreign adversaries control over submarine cable equipment. The rules also require annual reporting and certifications to ensure the security and integrity of submarine cable infrastructure.

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