Congressman Max Miller Introduces NEPTUNE Act to Protect America’s Critical Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Max Miller (OH-07) introduced the NEPTUNE (Naval Enhancement for Protection of Telecommunications Undersea Network Equipment) Act, legislation to enhance national security by authorizing the procurement of two new submarine cable laying and repair ships.

“Ninety-nine percent of our international internet traffic and trillions in financial transactions depend on undersea cables every day, making them a prime target in any future conflict. Yet today, the U.S. Navy has just one aging cable repair ship, and it’s nearing the end of its service life,” said Congressman Miller. “This bill gives the Navy the authority to procure a modern replacement and prohibits decommissioning the USNS Zeus until a new vessel is operational. This is about protecting America’s critical infrastructure and ensuring we’re prepared when it matters most.”

The legislation: 

·         Authorizes the Secretary of the Navy to procure two new submarine cable laying/repair ships and the necessary materials to operate them. 

·         Prohibits the decommissioning of the USNS Zeus until a replacement of equal or greater capability is operational. 

·         Enhances national security by protecting vital undersea communications infrastructure. 

·         Prepares the U.S. for future maritime warfare and grey zone conflict involving undersea communications, particularly in scenarios involving China and Taiwan.

Editor’s note regarding Congressman Miller: 

Congressman Max Miller represents Ohio’s Seventh District which includes Medina and Wayne counties as well as parts of Cuyahoga and Holmes counties. Miller serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. The Republican sophomore members selected Miller as their representative to the Republican Steering Committee. He is a member of the Republican Study Committee and Main Street Caucus. Before joining Congress, Miller spent six years in the Marine Corps Reserves and served in several senior positions for President Donald Trump. Please visit http://maxmiller.house.gov for more information. 

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