Meta Announces 50,000 km Subsea Cable Network to Enhance Global Connectivity

New Delhi, Feb 15 (KNN) Social media giant Meta has announced an ambitious plan to build a 50,000 km subsea cable network, dubbed Project Waterworth, connecting the United States, India, Brazil, South Africa, and other key regions.

The multi-billion-dollar investment aims to strengthen the scale and reliability of the world’s digital infrastructure.

“Meta is investing in India—one of its largest markets—bringing the world’s longest, highest-capacity, and most technologically advanced subsea cable project to connect India, the US, and other locations,” a company spokesperson said.

The project will establish three new oceanic corridors designed to enhance high-speed connectivity, which is crucial for driving AI innovation and digital transformation.

In a blog post, Meta highlighted the use of cutting-edge routing techniques to maximise the efficiency of cable deployment in deep waters—up to 7,000 meters deep.

Additionally, advanced burial techniques will be employed in shallow, high-risk fault areas to prevent damage from ship anchors and other hazards.

The investment reflects Meta’s commitment to India’s growing demand for digital services and its broader mission of fostering global technological advancement. India, already hosting 17 international subsea cables, will see Project Waterworth as its 18th such project, further boosting its digital infrastructure.

In a joint statement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump welcomed Meta’s initiative. They also reaffirmed their commitment to investing in the maintenance and financing of undersea cables in the Indian Ocean, with a focus on utilizing trusted vendors.

According to the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai), the country’s existing subsea cables boast a total lit capacity of 180 terabit per second (TBPS), with an active capacity of 132 TBPS. Meta’s latest initiative is expected to significantly enhance these figures and support India’s digital economy.

(KNN Bureau)