Seamless Communication: Can You Use Your Mobile Phone Onboard a Submarine?

While the allure of staying connected with the outside world is undeniable, submarines are one of the places where such connectivity is nearly impossible. The unique challenges of underwater communication, combined with the need for operational security, make it extremely difficult to use mobile phones onboard a submarine.

The Challenges of Communication

Underwater, the reality is that mobile phones do not function the way they do on land. Radio signals cannot penetrate water effectively, so traditional cell phone use is rendered impossible. For example, during my visit to CES in 2013, I saw waterproof smartphones that played music through waterproof speakers. However, these devices are not designed to operate under water for extended periods, and their primary function is entertainment rather than communication.

Emergency Communications

Despite the impossibility of constant communication, submariners are still given the option to be notified in case of emergency. Upon joining the submarine crew, new crew members are asked in writing if they want to be monitored in case of an emergency. For those who do want to be notified, their family members contact the Red Cross, which then contacts the submarine squadron to ensure the message is transmitted to the submarine.

For example, when I began my service, I opted not to be notified unless there were multiple deaths in my immediate family or a worse scenario. This decision was based on the fact that my chances of returning home after a deployment are already exceedingly slim, regardless of whether I am notified or not.

Operational Security and Usage Restrictions

Even if waterproof coatings could make mobile phones operate underwater, their use would still be highly restricted due to operational and security concerns. The submarine's primary mission is stealth, and any unauthorized emissions could compromise security. Additionally, the use of mobile phones as cameras could potentially leak sensitive information, while using them as music players or gaming devices would also need to be done responsibly and ethically.

Enclosed in a solid metal tube, submersible vessels act as a Faraday cage, effectively blocking radio signals. Even if the water attenuation was not a concern, the vast distance from shore mean there are no cell towers for conventional communication.

Practical Considerations

While technological advancements might one day make it possible to use mobile phones underwater, practical considerations such as operational security and the need for extended time underwater would likely still limit their use. For now, submariners focus on the equipment specifically designed for underwater missions, ensuring optimal performance and safety during their deployments.