In the global race for digital infrastructure, Meta is quietly crafting an astonishing infrastructure plan. The tech giant is preparing to invest over $10 billion to build a submarine cable network that spans the globe, showcasing its ambition and scale.
This 40,000-kilometer submarine cable is not just an ordinary communication project; it represents a significant strategic move by Meta in the global digital infrastructure arena. Unlike in the past, this time Meta will be the sole owner and user of the cable, marking a first in the company's history.
The planned route of the cable takes a "W" shape, starting from the East Coast of the United States, passing through South Africa to India, and then from India to Australia, reaching the West Coast of the United States. This route selection is not accidental; it is a result of carefully calculated geopolitical considerations. Experts point out that this route deliberately avoids sensitive geopolitical conflict areas such as the Red Sea, South China Sea, Egypt, Marseille, and the Strait of Malacca.
The driving forces behind this initiative are complex and profound. Firstly, as the world's second-largest internet traffic provider, Meta needs reliable infrastructure to support its platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. Secondly, in today's increasingly complex geopolitical landscape, controlling its own communication channels has become a strategic necessity for tech giants.
Interestingly, this cable may also hide strategic considerations for the development of artificial intelligence. Industry experts speculate that Meta may intend to establish an AI training base in India. Not only is India Meta's largest user market, but the cost of computing bandwidth is also significantly lower than in the United States, providing a unique advantage for AI infrastructure development.
Currently, the project is still in its early stages. Meta is expected to disclose more details in early 2025. However, industry insiders have already pointed out that due to the limited number of ships available for laying submarine cables globally, the project's progress may need to be carried out in phases.
This project reflects a profound transformation in the infrastructure strategies of contemporary tech companies. The submarine communication networks that were once dominated by telecom operators are now gradually being redefined by tech giants like Google and Meta. They are no longer satisfied with renting communication channels; they are determined to control their own digital lifelines.
For Meta, this is not just an infrastructure project but a global strategic deployment. Whether it's ensuring service quality, avoiding geopolitical risks, or paving the way for future AI development, this submarine cable spanning the Earth demonstrates the ambitious vision of this tech company.
