China’s New Era in Deep-Sea Exploration
China has taken a significant step forward in deep-sea exploration with the commissioning of its first comprehensive scientific research ship, Tansuo 3, also known as Exploration No. 3. Launched on December 26, 2024, from Nansha in Guangzhou, this vessel marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s efforts to expand its manned deep-diving capabilities. With a total of 1,433 dives conducted by its manned submersibles to date, China is positioning itself as a leader in global deep-sea research. This article delves into the features of Tansuo 3 and the implications of its launch for China’s scientific community.
Innovative Design and Capabilities
Tansuo 3 is a state-of-the-art research ship measuring approximately 104 meters in length and boasting a discharge volume of 10,000 tons. Its design incorporates dual-directional icebreaking capabilities at both the bow and stern, allowing it to navigate challenging icy waters. The ship has an impressive operational range of 15,000 nautical miles and can accommodate up to 80 personnel, making it well-suited for extensive research missions.
The development of Tansuo 3 involved collaboration among various research institutions, enterprises, and universities. This teamwork was essential in overcoming significant technological challenges. The ship is equipped with advanced polar operation scientific research control equipment, including China’s largest domestically developed water-tight scientific research moon pool system. Additionally, it features deep-sea acoustic detection equipment tailored for icy regions, as well as sophisticated communication and positioning systems. All these technologies are domestically developed, showcasing China’s growing self-reliance in deep-sea exploration.
The commissioning of Tansuo 3 is a testament to China’s commitment to advancing its capabilities in manned deep-sea exploration. With this vessel, researchers can conduct more comprehensive studies of the ocean’s depths, contributing to a better understanding of marine ecosystems and resources.
China’s Leadership in Manned Deep-Sea Exploration
China’s achievements in manned deep-sea exploration have been remarkable over the past decade. Since the successful dive of the Jiaolong submersible in 2012, which surpassed its predetermined depth, China has made significant strides in deep-sea technology. By 2017, the Deep Sea Warrior, or Shenhai Yongshi, had achieved autonomy in core technology and localized key equipment, further solidifying China’s position in this field.
In 2020, a collaborative effort involving nearly 1,000 researchers from around 100 institutions led to the construction of the Fendouzhe submersible, which successfully reached a depth of 10,909 meters in the Mariana Trench. This achievement highlighted China’s capability to conduct deep-sea missions at unprecedented depths.
In 2024 alone, the Deep Sea Warrior recorded 132 dives, contributing to China’s status as a leader in global manned deep dives. Over the past three years, China has accounted for more than half of the world’s manned deep dives, underscoring its commitment to exploring the ocean’s depths. Chinese scientists have also completed manned deep-dive expeditions in eight major hadal trenches worldwide, setting multiple world records in the process.
The launch of Tansuo 3 signifies a new chapter in China’s deep-sea exploration history. It not only enhances the nation’s research capabilities but also positions China as a key player in the global scientific community. As the world continues to face challenges related to climate change and ocean conservation, the insights gained from these deep-sea explorations will be invaluable for future generations.
