China has taken a significant leap forward in deep-sea exploration with the commissioning of its first domestically designed and built deep-ocean drilling vessel, the Meng Xiang. Officially entering service on November 17 in the southern metropolis of Guangzhou, the Meng Xiang is poised to enhance China’s capabilities in marine scientific research and resource exploration.
With a maximum drilling depth of 11 kilometers, the Meng Xiang sets a new benchmark in deep-sea drilling technology. The vessel stands as China’s largest scientific research ship, measuring 179.8 meters in length and 32.8 meters in width. It boasts an impressive displacement of 42,600 tonnes, underscoring its formidable presence on the high seas.
The Meng Xiang is equipped to journey up to 15,000 nautical miles without the need for resupply, allowing for extended missions of up to 120 days. Accommodations have been designed to support a crew and scientific team of 180 people, providing the necessary facilities for long-term research projects in some of the world’s most remote oceanic regions.
The commissioning of the Meng Xiang represents a strategic advancement for China’s scientific community and its ambitions in exploring the mysteries of the deep ocean. The vessel’s capabilities will enable scientists to conduct comprehensive geological and marine studies, potentially leading to new discoveries in natural resources and a deeper understanding of undersea environments.
As global interest in oceanic exploration grows, the Meng Xiang positions China at the forefront of deep-sea drilling technology, contributing valuable data and insights to the international scientific community. Its deployment reflects China’s commitment to advancing marine science and underscores the nation’s role in the global effort to explore and protect the oceans.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
