- Mengxiang is China’s ocean research drilling vessel designed for ultra-deepwater exploration.
- Scheduled sea trials were announced without specifics on location.
- Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted minimal progress.
China’s inaugural ocean research drilling vessel, Mengxiang, designed for ultra-deepwater exploration, can drill beyond 10,000 meters, covering 15,000 nautical miles without port return, reports Reuters.
Unveiling Advanced Capabilities
Named “Mengxiang” (meaning “dream” in Chinese), it’s equipped for extended 120-day operations globally, capable of navigating any sea.
Sea Trial and Deployment
Scheduled sea trials were announced without specifics on location, signaling China’s push to fortify deep-sea oil and gas exploration.
Context of Rising Tensions
The vessel’s launch coincides with heightened tensions in the resource-rich South China Sea amid disputes with the Philippines over energy exploration.
Regional Disputes
The South China Sea, vital for $3 trillion annual commerce, is contested by multiple nations like the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
Exploration Collaboration Stalls
Despite earlier talks between China and the Philippines for joint resource exploration, Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. noted minimal progress.
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Source: Reuters
