Meta's Ambitious Project Waterworth: The Longest Undersea Internet Cable for Global Connectivity

Meta is launching Project Waterworth, an ambitious initiative to construct a staggering 50,000 km (31,000 miles) sub-sea internet cable, which upon completion will become the longest underwater cable globally. This cable aims to connect key regions including the US, India, South Africa, and Brazil, hence providing ‘industry-leading connectivity’ across five major continents, aligning with Meta’s goal to enhance its technological infrastructure beyond social media.

The project leverages a 24 fibre-pair system, significantly increasing its data capacity. Sub-sea cables are crucial for global internet traffic, with more than 95% of this traffic transmitted via such cables. Currently, over 600 sub-sea cable systems are known worldwide, including the notable 2Africa cable which spans 45,000 km.

Tech giants like Meta and Google are leading the charge in cable infrastructure investment, marking a shift from traditional telecom companies towards major technology firms. This trend highlights the growing power of tech companies to independently support and fund such vital infrastructure. Analyst Paolo Pescatore emphasizes that this move positions Meta to compete more effectively in the digital space by integrating its connectivity ambitions with its existing technology ecosystem.

However, the increasing reliance on sub-sea cables also raises concerns regarding their susceptibility to attacks and accidents. Recent geopolitical tensions have intensified scrutiny over the security of undersea infrastructure, prompting initiatives such as increased monitoring in sensitive areas. Meta’s Project Waterworth intends to mitigate these risks by laying cables at depths of up to 7,000 meters and employing advanced burial techniques to safeguard against potential hazards.

Overall, Project Waterworth aims not only to improve connectivity and digital inclusion but also to enhance the economic cooperation and technological development in the connected regions while strategically bypassing geopolitical hotspots to bolster US interests.