Indonesia plans to use submarine optical cables to detect tsunamis

The Indonesian government intends to use submarine optical cable technology to improve the accuracy of the national tsunami early warning system, especially in areas prone to seismic activity. This was reported by Antara News.

It is noted that the project will be integrated into the warning system operated by the Indonesian Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG).

"This technological innovation research is needed to strengthen the existing tsunami early warning system," BMKG Head Dwikorita Karnawati remarked

Underwater optical cables can be used not only to transmit data and telecommunications signals, but also as a means of recording changes in pressure or underwater waves – signs of a possible tsunami. This is particularly relevant given the widespread use of such cables in Indonesian waters.

"If this optical cable can detect tsunamis, then sensors can be more evenly distributed throughout the region, including marine areas that currently do not have a detection system," Karnawati noted.

Earlier, TV BRICS reported that the issue of natural disasters, including the catastrophic consequences of earthquakes and tsunamis, has become one of the priorities of international cooperation.

In May 2025, a ministerial meeting of the BRICS countries was held in Brasilia, where representatives of the states discussed measures to combat climate disasters. The participants adopted a joint declaration and an action plan for 2025-2028, which provides for the development of sustainable infrastructure, the creation of effective early warning systems, and the consideration of local experience in risk management.

At the same time, the BRICS and BRICS+ countries are developing their own solutions.

As previously reported by Kazinform, a partner of TV BRICS, Kazakhstan and China have launched a large-scale scientific and technological project. The Kazakhstan-China Centre for Science and Technology Transfer has opened in Almaty, which will serve as the basis for the creation of a laboratory for spatio-temporal artificial intelligence and sustainable development. Among its tasks is the development of AI systems for forecasting floods, landslides, and snow avalanches.

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