Meta has announced plans for a groundbreaking sub-sea internet cable project, named Project Waterworth, which will span 50,000 kilometres (31,000 miles) across the globe.

The initiative aims to connect the United States, India, South Africa, Brazil, and “other regions, making it the longest underwater cable project in history upon completion.”

As the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, Meta is expanding its technological footprint beyond social media, venturing into artificial intelligence and the necessary infrastructure to support it. The new cable is expected to enhance connectivity across five major continents, fostering economic cooperation and digital inclusion, the company said in a blog post.

Meta described the multi-billion dollar project as a “significant step” toward improving connectivity along the world’s “digital highways.” The cable would utilise a 24 fibre-pair system. Sub-sea cables are crucial for global internet traffic, with over 95% of the data transmitted through such infrastructure.

Industry analysts pointed out a trend where major tech companies, rather than traditional telecom firms, are increasingly investing in and building these cables. The shift reflected the growing influence and financial capability of large tech companies to independently fund such substantial projects.

But the rising importance of sub-sea cables has also heightened concerns about their vulnerability to attacks and accidents. With recent incidents of severed cables, experts warn that undersea infrastructure is becoming a focal point for geopolitical tensions.

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In response, Meta plans to lay its cable system as deep as 7,000 metres and implement advanced burial techniques in high-risk areas to mitigate potential damage.

“Project Waterworth” is seen as a strategic move by Meta to enhance its connectivity and strengthen its position in the global digital landscape.

Meta is also shutting down Meta Connectivity, previously known as Facebook Connectivity. The division was established to enhance internet access for underserved communities, encouraging more users to engage with the platform.

Launched in 2013, Meta’s Connectivity division explored various initiatives to offer “free” internet access, including the Facebook Aquila project—an experimental solar-powered drone designed to deliver internet service to remote areas globally.