Meta and Google have encountered delays in the implementation of their major undersea cable projects. According to Bloomberg, these issues stem from a combination of operational difficulties, regulatory requirements, and geopolitical risks.
The 2Africa system by Meta aims to create a ring around Africa, connecting the continent to Europe and Asia. Problems have arisen while laying the cable through the southern part of the Red Sea. Regional conflicts and difficulties in obtaining permits have hindered the construction of a critical segment.
The Blue-Raman system, backed by Google, is also facing delays. The project began in 2021 and was scheduled to go live in 2024, establishing connectivity between France, Italy, Israel, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and India. The company has yet to announce new launch dates.
Other cable projects in the Red Sea are also delayed. Construction has repeatedly been halted due to missile attacks attributed to the Houthi group, as well as the need to change routes. According to Telegeography, operators are forced to purchase traffic on alternative networks because they cannot utilize their own investments.
Meanwhile, Meta and Google assert that these issues will not affect other announced undersea systems. Google continues to build a cable between Togo and Europe across the Atlantic, while Meta is working on a global cable route that will connect five continents and will not pass through the Red Sea.