Meta just revealed an ambitious plan: a subsea cable that will stretch across the globe, linking emerging economies like India, South Africa, and Brazil to the US. They call it Project Waterworth.
In a blog post, Gaya Nagarajan, Meta’s VP of Network Engineering, and Alex-Handrah Aimé, the head of global network investments, outlined the bold details. This cable will measure 50,000 kilometers, making it the longest in the world and incorporating the latest high-capacity technology. It’s all about connecting fast-growing regions to the US, fostering economic cooperation, promoting digital inclusion, and unlocking technological advancements.
Meta has already built over 20 subsea cables. With this new project, they aim to enhance cable resilience and speed up deployment, allowing them to create a 24-fiber pair cable that’s the longest ever attempted. This multibillion-dollar venture will see cables installed at depths of 7,000 meters. It will take years to finish but promises improved high-speed internet access. This increased connectivity could boost artificial intelligence (AI) innovation around the globe.
“AI is changing everything,” Meta explained. “From how we connect with one another to how we build infrastructure, we’re leading the way in innovative technology.” They emphasized that as AI reshapes industries, the need for capacity, resilience, and a global reach is crucial for modern infrastructure. The company sees Project Waterworth as a way to make sure everyone, no matter where they are, can benefit from these emerging technologies.
However, there’s an ongoing concern about protecting these critical infrastructures from potential attacks. Recently, UK MPs initiated an inquiry into how well the country can guard its underwater internet cables. These cables are vital for linking the UK to the broader world, and as threats of sabotage rise, the Joint Committee on the National Security Strategy is investigating the nation’s readiness for possible assaults on these key communication lines.
This inquiry follows a warning from Defence Secretary John Healey about threats from Russia, particularly after a Russian spy ship was spotted in British waters. A staggering 99% of the UK’s data runs through undersea cables, making them crucial. Committee chairman Matt Western pointed out that as geopolitical tensions increase, foreign states could exploit vulnerabilities in these systems. He assured that while there’s resilience in the current setup and growing awareness of the risks, a serious attack could have dire consequences.
Globally, the internet heavily relies on a vast network of about 500 cables, which transport 95% of internet traffic. These cables often sit in remote locations, presenting challenges for monitoring and protection.