China's largest cable-laying vessel, the "Qifan 19," officially started sea trials on November 9 in Nantong City of the eastern Jiangsu Province.

Measuring 108.6 meters long, 37.2 meters wide, and with a maximum displacement of 24,000 tonnes, the "Qifan 19" is the largest cable-laying vessel in China in terms of displacement and cable-carrying capacity, which is capable of carrying up to 10,000 tonnes of cables.

Following its launch into water, the "Qifan 19" will undergo a series of tests. Once delivered, it will expand the scope of China's cable-laying operations beyond the country's near-shore waters, venturing into the deep sea and reaching countries along the Belt and Road.