China launches new deep-sea exploration ship 'Tansuo-3'

China has commissioned the deep-sea research vessel 'Tansuo-3,' which will play a vital role in advancing the nation's ocean exploration efforts. This state-of-the-art vessel is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed for extensive undersea investigations, facilitating the study of marine ecosystems and resources in the deep ocean. The launch of 'Tansuo-3' reflects China's commitment to expanding its capabilities in marine research and understanding the complexities of deep-sea environments.

China launches new deep-sea exploration ship 'Tansuo-3'
China's domestically developed deep-sea multi-functional scientific exploration and cultural relics archaeological ship, Tansuo-3, was commissioned in Sanya City, located in south China's tropical island province of Hainan, on Sunday, preparing to undertake missions in 2025.

The commissioning of this vessel signifies a substantial enhancement of China's manned submersible capabilities, allowing Chinese scientific expedition teams to explore various sea areas.

As per the schedule, the ship will carry a full-ocean-depth Human Occupied Vehicle known as Shenhai Yongshi for regular scientific research operations, deep-sea equipment trials, and deep-sea archaeology in the South China Sea during the first half of 2025.

In the latter half of next year, the vessel is set to initiate manned deep-sea submersible operations in abyssal oceans.

Tansuo-3 stands out as China's inaugural comprehensive scientific research ship capable of conducting global deep-sea exploration, including in polar regions, and is equipped to support manned deep diving in icy environments.

With a length of 104 meters and a displacement of approximately 10,000 tonnes, Tansuo-3 was designed, developed, and constructed entirely by China. It can reach a maximum speed of 16 knots and travel up to 15,000 nautical miles on a single voyage, accommodating 80 crew members and capable of breaking ice from both its forward and aft sections.

The ship features a large moon pool measuring 6 meters by 4.8 meters, located at the base of the hull, facilitating scientific exploration operations on floating ice and in demanding maritime conditions.

The commissioning of this vessel represents a significant breakthrough in China's self-reliance in developing key core technologies, showcasing not only domestically developed equipment but also independently developed critical control systems.

Thomas Evans contributed to this report for TROIB News