Bill would expand U.S. cable ship fleet from 2 to 6 vessels

What does this do?

HR 8808 expands the Cable Security Fleet, a government program that contracts with privately owned ships capable of laying and repairing undersea communications cables. The bill raises the minimum number of ships in the fleet from 2 to at least 6. It also extends the program through 2040 and raises per-ship payments from exactly $5 million per year to up to $7 million per year.

Who does it affect?

The bill directly affects companies that own and operate specialized cable-laying ships, as well as the U.S. military and federal agencies that rely on undersea cables. Everyday Americans are indirectly affected because undersea cables carry the vast majority of international internet traffic, international calls, and global financial transactions.

Why does it matter?

Expanding the fleet increases the number of ships available to the government during national emergencies or military operations that require undersea cable repair or installation. A larger, better-funded program means more capacity to maintain the cables that underpin international communications and internet access.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Program funding: $10M/year to $56M/year
• Program extended through 2040
• Per-ship pay: up to $7M/year

Where does it stand?