Guangzhou, China—In a momentous stride for deep-sea exploration, China has launched its first domestically designed and built deep-ocean drilling vessel, the Meng Xiang (which translates to “Dream Voyage”). The vessel entered service on Sunday in the southern city of Guangzhou, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime capabilities.
The Meng Xiang boasts impressive specifications: a gross tonnage of 33,000 tonnes, a length of 179.8 meters, and a beam of 32.8 meters. Remarkably, it is capable of reaching depths of up to 11 kilometers, making it the only drilling vessel in the world with such ultra-deepwater drilling capabilities.
“The launch of the Meng Xiang represents a significant advancement in our deep-sea exploration efforts,” said a spokesperson at the launch ceremony. “This vessel will enable us to explore previously unreachable parts of the ocean floor, unlocking new potentials in scientific research and resource discovery.”
Designed for endurance, the vessel can operate continuously for 120 days and has an impressive range of up to 15,000 nautical miles. This allows for extended missions without the need for frequent resupply, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.
The introduction of the Meng Xiang is expected to bolster China’s position in maritime exploration and may open up new opportunities for international collaboration in oceanographic research and resource development.
Maritime analysts around the globe are watching closely, as the vessel’s capabilities could have significant implications for the future of deep-sea exploration.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com