China's first deep-sea multi-functional scientific investigation and cultural relics archaeological ship Tansuo-3. /China Media Group
China's first deep-sea multi-functional scientific investigation and cultural relics archaeological ship successfully completed a trial voyage and returned to a port in Guangzhou, capital of south China's Guangdong Province, on Saturday.
During the eight-day journey, the vessel, named Tansuo-3 (Exploration-3), underwent 30 major categories of tests, including speed measurement, maneuverability, underwater radiation noise assessment, informatization and intelligence. All test results met established standards, with some indicators exceeding the original design goals.
Measuring 104 meters long and with a displacement of about 10,000 tonnes, Tansuo-3 was independently designed, developed and built by China. It is the country's first comprehensive scientific research ship capable of global deep-sea exploration, including in polar regions, and can support manned deep diving in ice areas.
The vessel can accommodate up to 80 people, traveling at a maximum speed of 16 knots (about 30 kilometers per hour) for a range of 15,000 nautical miles (roughly 27,780 kilometers) with dual-direction icebreaking capabilities.
The cutting-edge ship is not only equipped for deep-sea scientific research and archaeological projects, but will also facilitate summer explorations in polar marine areas, which is expected to enhance China's manned deep-sea capabilities and archaeological operations.
Tansuo-3 is slated for delivery in early 2025.