- China launches the world’s first typhoon-proof high-speed uncrewed submersible, capable of operating underwater for 30 days and reaching speeds of 36 knots.
- The Blue Whale combines AI, deep learning, and modular payloads to autonomously map seabed’s, monitor marine ecosystems, and deploy weather sensors near typhoons.
- Part of China’s push for marine tech leadership, the vessel marks a shift from catch-up to innovation, with full operational deployment expected by 2026.
China has launched the “Blue Whale,” a pioneering high-speed uncrewed submersible capable of withstanding violent typhoons, operating autonomously for up to 30 days, and performing advanced oceanographic tasks. Unveiled in the southern city of Zhuhai, the 11-metre, 12-tonne vessel is designed to function both as a high-speed surface craft and a deep-diving underwater platform, setting a new standard in marine technology.
With surface speeds reaching up to 36 knots, the Blue Whale can travel hundreds of kilometers before rapidly diving as deep as 60 meters to avoid extreme weather. It employs AI-powered autonomous navigation and mission scheduling, enabling precise deployments near typhoon zones to launch meteorological sensors for vital atmospheric and oceanic data collection. Its ability to remain statically suspended underwater for over a month mirrors the stealth capabilities of a nuclear submarine.
The Blue Whale’s design supports more than 20 types of modular payloads, including gear for meteorological research, subsea mapping, ecological monitoring, and infrastructure inspections. Its advanced propulsion system switches between high-speed waterjets and quiet magnetic fluid drives, while special noise-dampening coatings allow for discreet hydroacoustic research. The vessel also features a multibeam sonar and sub-bottom profiler for detailed seabed surveys and resource identification.
During initial trials in the South China Sea, the Blue Whale mapped 3,000 square kilometers in just 15 days—five times faster than conventional research vessels. It is also equipped with an intelligent monitoring network capable of tracking environmental issues such as coral bleaching, red tides, and fish migrations in real-time, supporting China’s efforts in marine conservation and resource management.
Part of China’s broader push into intelligent marine systems, the Blue Whale builds on past deep-sea innovations like the Jiaolong submersible and Shenhai-1 gas field. With over 600 patents filed by developer Yunzhou and a growing supply chain of more than 30 companies, the vessel underscores China’s transition from follower to leader in marine tech. Following harbour and sea trials, the Blue Whale is expected to enter full operational service by 2026, as the global market for uncrewed maritime vehicles continues its projected growth toward $2.5 billion by 2034.
