China has launched the 'Blue Whale,' a groundbreaking high-speed submersible unmanned surface vessel, marking a leap forward in marine technology. Unveiled in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, the innovative craft is designed to operate seamlessly above and below water, achieving surface speeds of 36 knots and submerging for over a month to evade extreme weather.
Developed by Zhuhai Yunzhou and collaborators, the vessel's capabilities are poised to transform oceanographic research and emergency response. Its adaptability allows deployment in meteorology, underwater mapping, infrastructure inspections, and disaster management—including collecting critical data near typhoon epicenters through specially designed sensors and rockets.
'The Blue Whale is a milestone in China's independent innovation in marine science,' said Chen Dake, a Chinese Academy of Sciences academician. 'It will accelerate ocean exploration and support strategic scientific objectives.'
Construction of the engineering model began in June 2024, with rigorous phases like pressure-resistant welding and hull assembly paving the way for its anticipated 2026 operational debut. Final tests, including internal debugging and sea trials, will ensure reliability under diverse conditions.
Wu Guosong, the project's chief engineer, emphasized its versatility: 'This vessel addresses urgent maritime challenges while offering sustainable solutions for oceanic studies.' Its potential applications span industries, from submarine cable maintenance to environmental monitoring, positioning it as a critical tool for advancing global marine science.
