Meta has announced its groundbreaking Waterworth Project, a massive initiative to construct a 50,000-kilometer submarine cable that will revolutionize global internet connectivity.
Expanding Digital Highways Across Five Continents
This undersea infrastructure will extend across five continents, with key landing points in the United States, India, Brazil, and South Africa. The initiative is part of Meta’s long-term strategy to enhance digital infrastructure, particularly in markets where artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-based services are rapidly growing.
Submarine cables currently handle over 95% of intercontinental internet traffic, making them vital for global communications. Meta described Waterworth as a multibillion-dollar, multi-year investment focused on expanding digital highways to support the increasing demand for AI-driven applications.
India’s Strategic Role in the Project
With India emerging as a global hub for digital innovation, the project is expected to accelerate the country’s digital transformation. Meta emphasized that the infrastructure will support India’s ambitious digital economy initiatives, reinforcing its position as a leader in AI and cloud technologies.
Government Backing and Global Cooperation
The project has also gained political traction. A recent joint statement by U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi highlighted their commitment to undersea technologies, explicitly mentioning Waterworth as a key investment in strengthening connectivity in the Indian Ocean region.
Cutting-Edge Cable Technology
The network will incorporate a 24-fiber-pair cable architecture, utilizing advanced routing techniques to optimize deep-water pathways up to 7,000 meters below the surface. Meta has also refined its burial techniques to mitigate risks from ship anchors and other external threats, ensuring long-term reliability.
Meta’s Growing Influence in Undersea Infrastructure
Over the past decade, Meta has collaborated on more than 20 submarine cable projects. However, the Waterworth Project marks a significant shift, as it will be the company’s first fully-owned undersea cable system. This move puts Meta in direct competition with Google, which currently operates around 33 undersea cable routes.
Other tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft are also investing in subsea infrastructure, though their focus has largely been on shared ownership models rather than full proprietary networks.
The Future of Global Connectivity
As the demand for AI, cloud computing, and high-speed internet continues to grow, projects like Waterworth will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of digital services. With its extensive reach and cutting-edge technology, this undersea cable could redefine global internet infrastructure for years to come.
For more on AI-driven advancements in digital infrastructure, check out how South Korea is hosting the most advanced AI data center.
