In a transformative move to enhance global connectivity, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has officially announced “Project Waterworth,” a groundbreaking subsea cable project that will span an unprecedented 50,000 kilometers.
This ambitious undertaking will connect five continents, including the United States, Brazil, India, and South Africa, through landing points in strategic regions. Meta emphasizes the significant opportunities in India, where the network will play a crucial role in deploying AI services globally.
Project Waterworth breaks new ground in cable architecture. With its 24 fiber pair cables and innovative routing methods, it maximizes the cable laid in deep water, extending up to 7,000 meters. Moreover, advanced burial techniques will mitigate faults in high-risk areas, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Geopolitics has played a pivotal role in Meta’s decision to invest in its own subsea infrastructure. The White House’s joint statement between the US and India highlights the collaboration on undersea technologies as part of a defense partnership. India’s involvement in financing the project further underscores its strategic importance.
The cable’s primary purpose is to support the burgeoning growth of AI data centers and cloud services, particularly in India, one of the world’s most populated countries. Meta anticipates applications such as digital communication, video streaming, and online transactions to thrive through this robust connectivity.
Project Waterworth represents Meta’s first wholly owned subsea cable project and places the company among tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, who have invested heavily in such infrastructure. Meta’s move towards self-owned networks reflects the growing importance of controlling critical infrastructure for global connectivity and innovation.
Original source: Read the full article on TechCrunch
