China to Build the World’s First Autonomous Floating Research Platform
Amul Info ·
China has signed a contract to build a 74,000-tonne floating scientific platform designed for long-term ocean research. The facility will feature six specialized laboratories, with construction scheduled to begin in 2028 and delivery planned for June 2030.
China has signed a contract to build an autonomous floating research platform with a displacement of up to 74,000 tonnes, designed to conduct long-term scientific research in the depths of the ocean. The project envisages the creation of a large-scale scientific complex capable of operating for extended periods in challenging marine conditions.
The new platform is described as the first floating artificial “island” of its kind. It will bring together scientific laboratories, accommodation facilities and spacious working areas, allowing researchers to carry out long-term observations in the open sea.
The platform will be operated by Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Its design and construction have been entrusted to Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). Construction is scheduled to begin in 2028, with the completed facility expected to be delivered to the customer in June 2030.
Unlike conventional research vessels, the new platform will feature a twin-hull catamaran design with a semi-submersible structure. This engineering solution is intended to improve its stability at sea and enable it to operate for extended periods far from the coast. The platform will be able to move independently between research areas and transport the necessary scientific equipment and specialists to designated locations.
According to the project’s technical specifications, the platform will be 138 metres long, 85 metres wide and have a main deck height of 45 metres. Its displacement will reach 74,000 tonnes, while its maximum speed will be approximately 20 kilometres per hour.
The catamaran design is intended to ensure the platform’s stability in rough sea conditions. According to the project, it will be capable of operating in sea states reaching seven on the international scale. Under such conditions, a considerable proportion of the waves may reach approximately 6–9 metres in height. The platform is also designed to withstand severe typhoon conditions, with sustained wind speeds exceeding 260 kilometres per hour.
One of the project’s key features is its ability to move independently. Unlike offshore structures permanently fixed in one location, the new complex will be able to change its position according to the needs of scientific research. In this way, it will combine the mobility of a vessel with the facilities and advantages of a large floating research centre.
The platform will house six specialised laboratories. They will focus on equipment and integrated technologies used in deep-sea operations, hazardous marine phenomena, meteorological conditions and long-term changes in ocean ecosystems.
The scientific programme will cover not only the testing of technical equipment designed for use at great depths but also the study of natural processes that affect the state of the world’s oceans. Long-term observations will make it possible to examine in greater detail changes that are difficult to detect during short-term scientific expeditions. The platform’s technical facilities will also be used to test marine equipment and various engineering systems.
The complex is designed to accommodate a total of 238 people, including crew members and scientists. This capacity will support long-term expeditions, reduce the need for frequent staff rotations and limit the number of trips back to port for supplies.
Once construction is completed, the platform is expected to enable scientific research in several fields to be conducted simultaneously. The project will mark an important step towards exploring the ocean depths, advancing marine technologies and expanding the capabilities of long-term scientific observation.