Key Takeaways
1. Meta’s Project Waterworth aims to create the largest subsea cable, stretching over 50,000 kilometers, set to be completed by the end of the decade.
2. The cable will enhance global connectivity across five continents, focusing on regions like the U.S., India, Brazil, and South Africa.
3. It will use advanced technology with 24 fiber pairs, increasing data transmission capabilities compared to the typical 8 to 16 fiber pairs in existing systems.
4. The routing will prioritize deep water areas and employ specialized burial methods to protect against potential damages.
5. Meta’s investment in the project is expected to be in the multi-billion range, with capital expenditures forecasted to be between $60 and $65 billion in 2025.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is planning to construct the largest subsea cable through Project Waterworth. This ambitious initiative is anticipated to be completed by the end of the decade and will stretch over 50,000 kilometers, utilizing the most advanced technology currently available. The new infrastructure is set to outpace the 2Africa cable, which is the longest existing submarine cable at 45,000 kilometers.
Enhanced Global Connectivity
The cable will connect five continents, improving internet links in major regions like the U.S., India, Brazil, and South Africa. Meta has stated that this project aims to “strengthen the scale and reliability of the world’s digital highways by opening three new oceanic corridors with the abundant, high-speed connectivity needed to drive AI innovation around the world.”
Advanced Technology Features
Notably, the new cable will feature 24 fiber pairs, a significant upgrade from the usual 8 to 16 fiber pairs found in contemporary systems. This enhancement will enable a greater capacity for data transmission. Currently, Meta operates over 20 subsea cables around the globe.
Strategic Routing and Investment
The routing strategy will focus on laying the cable in deeper waters, reaching depths of up to 7,000 meters. In areas prone to faults, Meta plans to implement advanced burial techniques to protect the cable from potential threats such as ship anchors.
While the specific investment amount has not been disclosed, it is expected to be in the multi-billion dollar range. For the year 2025, capital expenditures are projected to be between $60 billion and $65 billion, “driven by increased investment to support both our generative AI efforts and core business.”
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