this invention improves on explosively actuated cable cutters in that it orporates a remote capability of activating the cutter . the improved apparatus comprises an acoustical transducer for receiving a remote coded signal , an electric circuit designed to detect the specific coded signal , a motor and gear mechanism which is initiated upon detection of the remote coded signal to activate the explosively actuated cable cutter . the electronics and motor compartment are hydrostatically sealed and pitted with a pressure switch and a water intrusion fail - safe circuit . the pressure switch is designed to inactivate the apparatus beyond a preset ocean depth , and the water intrusion fail - safe circuit is designed to detect any seawater seepage into the sealed electronics compartment . upon the detection of such seepage the intrusion fail - safe circuit disconnects the system from the battery thereby removing danger of premature triggering of the cable cutter .