Background. The expansion of subsea infrastructure in ALKI II introduces complex security threats, demanding a strong synergy between advanced technology and institutional capabilities to maintain maritime domain awareness. Purpose. This study investigates how technology-based control capabilities support underwater security and identifies the key organizational factors that determine their success from a defense perspective. Method. Employing a qualitative case study design, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with 30 key stakeholders, document analysis, and field observations, then analyzed using thematic coding and exploratory inferential analysis. Results. Technology-driven capabilities significantly boosted situational awareness and institutional decision-making. High technological readiness strongly correlated with overall security effectiveness (r = 0.74, p < 0.001), with organizational readiness and staff competence serving as critical supporting drivers. Conclusion. Technology alone is insufficient; sustainable underwater defense requires combining high-tech systems with skilled personnel, interoperable networks, sound governance, and cohesive interagency coordination.