Opportunity
Federal Register #2026-15123
FCC Regulatory Framework for Submarine Cable Landing Licenses and National Security
Buyer
Federal Communications Commission
Posted
July 27, 2026
Identifier
2026-15123
This summary covers the FCC's new regulatory framework for submarine cable landing licenses and related national security requirements: - Government Buyer: - Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Office of International Affairs - Regulatory Action (Not a Procurement): - Establishes a comprehensive licensing and compliance framework for owners and operators of submarine line terminal equipment (SLTE) on submarine cables landing in the U.S. - Introduces blanket licensing, routine conditions, and new certification and reporting obligations for SLTE licensees - Requires cybersecurity and physical security risk management plans, annual reporting, and contractual provisions to prevent foreign adversary control - Streamlines application process for SLTE licenses that meet ten specific national security standards, exempting them from Executive Branch referral - Estimated compliance costs: $39.2 million initially, $10.7 million annually - No OEMs, vendors, or specific products are being procured; this is a regulatory change - Additional Action: NMFS announced inseason adjustments to the 2026 Pacific halibut recreational fishery in Area 2A, adding fishing dates to meet allocation goals - No product or service purchases are being solicited or awarded
Description
This final rule by the Federal Communications Commission establishes a regulatory framework for licensing owners and operators of submarine line terminal equipment (SLTE) on submarine cables landing in the United States. The rule includes new certification requirements, routine conditions, and reporting obligations to enhance national security and transparency. It exempts certain applications meeting ten national security standards from referral to the Executive Branch and aims to facilitate faster deployment of submarine cable infrastructure while safeguarding critical communications infrastructure. The rule is effective September 25, 2026.