In a bold move that will grab headlines for years to come, Meta Platforms Inc. has announced plans to construct the world’s longest subsea cable system, called “Project Waterworth,” that would connect five continents with over 50,000 km of fiber optic cable.

Per Meta statements and multiple media reports, Meta is going far beyond its social media roots to invest heavily in global connectivity. As the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, Meta’s services already account for a substantial portion of global internet traffic—10% of fixed and 22% of mobile usage.

Project Waterworth is designed to link key regions including the U.S., India, Brazil and South Africa. Meta describes it as a “multibillion-dollar, multi-year investment” aimed at bolstering global connectivity and supporting technological advancements, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.

The cable will use the 24 fiber-pair technology that Meta states will provide “industry-leading connectivity” that supports the growing demands of AI and other data-intensive applications. If the project goes forward as envisioned, it will be a long time before the cable suppliers are named, and expectations are that multiple suppliers would be needed. Meta, which is part owner of 16 existing networks, has had prior projects supplied by Alcatel Submarine Networks and SubCom, LLC.

Google and Microsoft have also been involved in similar, albeit smaller-scale, subsea cable projects in recent years through dozens of consortium projects. What has drawn much interest is Meta’s decision to solely own and operate this cable. A timetable suggested that it could happen as early as 2030, which is amazing given the inherent delays many much smaller projects encounter.

The project faces significant challenges, such as the shortage of specialized vessels that are required for cable laying. Environmental concerns and regulatory hurdles across multiple jurisdictions also present potential obstacles.

Meta has stated the case for the project’s potential impact. “Project Waterworth will foster enhanced economic collaboration, promote digital inclusivity, and create pathways for technological advancement in these areas,” the company stated in its announcement.