To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
From website of Shanghai Jiao Tong University The Pioneer II deep-sea mining vehicle developed by China
By Shotaro Demizu / Yomiuri Shimbun Correspondent
16:58 JST, July 13, 2024
SHENYANG, China — A deep-sea mining vehicle succeeded in collecting minerals at about 4,100 meters under the sea, the state-run Xinhua News Agency reported Tuesday. Named the Pioneer II, the vehicle was independently developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University.
The administration of President Xi Jinping, which has continued its expansion at sea including around Japan’s Nansei island chain as it seeks to become a major maritime power, is strengthening moves to secure natural resources.
The Pioneer II, which is six meters long and weighs 14 tons, is designed to be capable of diving down to 6,000 meters. It can excavate minerals with a drill at the tip of its arm. It is also equipped with tracks for driving on the seabed, and can drive on a more than 30-degree slope.
The vehicle had a test-run in the western Pacific in June and collected more than 200 kilograms of ore containing titanium and nickel.
