Science & Tech · Science & Environment · 2 hrs ago
Upgraded Jiaolong Submersible Reaches 7,056.9 Meters in Sea Trials
China’s Jiaolong manned submersible completed three test dives in the Philippine Basin, reaching a maximum depth of 7,056.9 meters.
The trials followed its second round of upgrades and included two dives below 7,000 meters.
Jiaolong is a crewed craft used for deep-sea research, where equipment must withstand great pressure and darkness.
Its upgrades included new lithium batteries, domestically made thrusters and improved cameras and control systems.
The changes are intended to improve the submersible’s endurance and research capabilities.
Its cameras can record 4K images, while a system using artificial intelligence can identify and log seafloor life and materials from images.
The upgraded craft is expected to support future dives and may be shared with research partners around the world.
China’s Jiaolong manned submersible completed its first 7,000-metre-class sea trials after a second round of upgrades.
It made three test dives in the Philippine Basin, reaching a maximum depth of 7,056.9 metres.
The upgrades included a high-energy-density lithium battery pack and domestically made direct-drive thrusters.
The trials took place during the second leg of China’s 100th ocean voyage.
- Who
- China’s Jiaolong manned submersible.
- What
- It completed three test dives after upgrades, reaching a maximum depth of 7,056.9 metres.
- When
- Recently; the articles were published on October 28, 2026.
- Where
- The Philippine Basin, aboard the research vessel Shenhai Yihao.
- Why
- To test the submersible after its second round of upgrades and replacement of key components with domestically made alternatives.
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- Maximum depth
- 7,056.9 metres
- Test dives
- 3
- Trials location
- Philippine Basin
- Voyage
- China’s 100th ocean voyage, second leg
- Battery upgrade
- 7,000-metre-class high-energy-density oil-immersed lithium battery pack
- Thrusters
- Domestically made direct-drive low-noise DC thrusters