China's domestically engineered Haiqin remotely operated vehicle (ROV) has successfully concluded a deep-sea expedition in the South China Sea. The 3.6-ton ROV, developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University, reached a depth of 4,140 meters during its recent sea trials. Designed for dives up to 6,000 meters, the Haiqin ROV is equipped with advanced features including high-definition cameras, robotic arms, sonar systems, and various sensors, demonstrating precise hovering and automatic heading control.
During the expedition, the Haiqin ROV collected vital biological samples and sediment data, which were transferred to the supporting research vessel, Zhong Shan Da Xue. This mission also marked a significant milestone as it involved the simultaneous deployment of another Chinese deep-sea submersible, the Haidou-1. This concurrent operation of two distinct unmanned submersibles from a single research vessel is a first for China, highlighting the nation's increasing sophistication in managing complex underwater operations.
China's commitment to deep-sea exploration is a key component of its national strategy to bolster its maritime presence and technological capabilities. The development of the Haiqin and Haidou-1 systems builds upon previous advancements, including the Jiaolong and Fendouzhe submersibles, which have achieved record-breaking manned dives. These efforts are crucial for advancing scientific understanding of marine environments and supporting national goals in resource exploration and technological innovation.
The South China Sea, a region of considerable scientific interest, offers insights into geological processes, climate evolution, and marine biodiversity. Expeditions like the one undertaken by the Haiqin ROV contribute valuable data to the global scientific community, enhancing our understanding of this critical marine environment. The continued development and deployment of such advanced underwater technology underscore China's forward-looking approach to deep-ocean exploration.