Chinese Navy Strength: Advanced systems help submarines dive deeper

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China has mastered air-independent propulsion technology, which allows its non-nuclear submarines to reach the advanced level of similar systems in other parts of the world. Our reporter Meng Qingsheng covers the naval review and takes us inside the Type 039-B submarine serving the PLA Navy's East Sea Fleet.

Patrolling the blue water, this diesel-electric submarine is a powerful weapon in the Chinese Navy.

MENG QINGSHENG SANYA, HAINAN "This is an advanced type of conventionally powered submarine developed by China. It's equipped with an air-independent propulsion system, allowing it to have an increased propulsion performance and underwater endurance."

Inside the control room, Captain He Xiaojian is monitoring conditions on the surface of the water. During an emergency drill, he issues an order to quickly dive.

HE XIAOJIAN 335 SUBMARINE CAPTAIN "To win battles, we keep a close eye on our rivals and focus on future combat waters. We have conducted trainings at offshore deep sea to test our overall capabilities to launch attacks, defend and take cover. As a routine practice, we have also carried out live-fire drills to improve our anti-submarine and anti-ship abilities."

Technician Zhou Xiaohui is responsible for navigating the sub on a safe course. He's been working on the job for 20 years.

ZHOU XIAOHUI 335 SUBMARINE NAVIGATION TECHNICIAN "The submarine forms the pillar part of the naval force. It has a higher requirement on technologies. Given the conditions inside the submarine, it's a huge challenge to us both physically and mentally. But to win battles, we need to work hard and improve our capabilities."

MENG QINGSHENG SANYA, HAINAN "Space inside this submarine is quite limited. I barely passed through this water-proof gate. This sub has a total of six different compartments, each of them has a particular function."

Submarine designers have worked out solutions to make full use of every space. This room serves multiple purposes, like holding meetings, sleeping and doing operations.

Advanced technology along with high efficiency have improved the sub's combat capacity to help defend China's blue water. Meng Qingsheng, CGTN, Sanya in Hainan Province.