Meet Project Waterworth: World's longest subsea internet cable by Meta
What's the story
In a groundbreaking move, Meta has announced the launch of Project Waterworth, an initiative to lay the world's longest subsea internet cable. The project, which will span over 50,000km, will improve connectivity across several regions including India, Brazil, South Africa and the US. It is a multi-billion dollar investment and part of Meta's long-term plan to become a leading player in communication infrastructure.
Global impact
It will boost AI accessibility worldwide
Project Waterworth is expected to go live by the end of this decade. The main objective of this effort is to make AI technologies accessible to the world. "In India, where we've already seen significant growth and investment in digital infrastructure, Waterworth will help accelerate this progress and support the country's ambitious plans for its digital economy," Meta said on its Engineering at Meta website post.
Infrastructure
Waterworth to lay cables at depths of 7,000 meters
As part of Project Waterworth, Meta plans to lay additional cables at depths reaching up to 7,000 meters. The company has previously collaborated with partners on over 20 subsea cable projects. Protective measures will be implemented for cables in high-risk areas prone to damage. "Subsea cable projects, such as Project Waterworth, are the backbone of global digital infrastructure," Meta emphasized.
Expansion plans
Project Waterworth to open 3 new oceanic corridors
Project Waterworth will open three new oceanic corridors, offering high-speed connectivity critical for global AI innovation. The project will see the development of over 20 subsea cables, including several deployments with 24 fiber pairs - a major jump from the usual eight to 16 fiber pairs of other new systems. The announcement comes as Meta ramps up spending on AI infrastructure, planning to invest $60-65 billion in capital expenditures in 2025 alone.
Executive insights
Meta executives highlight AI's transformative role
In a recent blog post, Meta's VP of Engineering, Gaya Nagarajan and the global chief of network investments, Alex-Handrah Aime, highlighted the transformative role of AI. They emphasized, "As AI continues to transform industries and societies around the world, it's clear that capacity, resilience and global reach are more important than ever." They believe Project Waterworth will ensure that benefits of AI and other emerging technologies are accessible to everyone.