The global backbone of the internet. More than 500 undersea cables carrying 95% of the world's data,

enabling business from international financial transactions to video streaming and telephone calls.

But the cables are at risk of sabotage from hostile governments.

I'm Russell Padmore.

And in Business Daily, I'll explain why the global network of data cables stretching more

than a million kilometres is at risk of being damaged.

Russia, China and Iran are interested in disrupting this infrastructure as part of their hybrid

strategies to build

insecurity in the West. Countries opposed to Western democracies could undermine economic growth

by cutting cables. They transport all manner of data, including financial transactions.

Sabotage isn't the only risk for subsea cables.

Off the coast of Africa, ships are accidentally breaking them by dragging anchors.

Undersea cables are needed for many countries on the African continent to be finally able

to see economic development, financial opportunities.

Business Daily, examining how to protect the global network of undersea data cables.

Waves from the Atlantic Ocean, washing up on Bally Carberry Beach on Valencia Island in County Kerry.

This beach here in the southwest of Ireland played a pivotal role in the history of global telecommunications.

In 1857, the first transatlantic telegraph cable was landed here, connecting Europe with North America.

The first cable broke, but new ones were laid,

and by 1866, dozens of telegraphers were working on Valencia Island.

Sending and receiving messages, enabling business across the ocean to flourish.

As technology advanced, the cables between Ireland and Canada carry telephone calls and data.

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