Chinese scientists mark tech first with underwater survey near South China Sea’s Scarborough Shoal

‘Entirely home-grown technology’ used as Chinese marine geologists explore 100km stretch along disputed Scarborough Shoal

Made in China devices not only cheaper but seen as capable of evading technological sanctions as the US and its allies step up containment drive

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Scientists from two of China’s leading marine geological research institutes took part in the 45-day expedition. Photo: Wikipedia

Published: 10:00am, 11 Sep 2023Updated: 12:15pm, 11 Sep 2023

Chinese researchers have completed a large-scale geological exploration mission near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.

In a first for such expeditions, all critical devices used were developed and made in China, according to the researchers. This means they were not only cheaper but also immune to potential technological sanctions as the United States and its allies step up their campaign to contain China.

The 45-day mission involved a study of the geophysical structures along a straight 100km (62 mile) line in disputed waters off the eastern coast of the Philippines, a rival claimant to the Scarborough Shoal.

Scientists surveyed as deep as 4,000 metres below sea level for the operation, a joint venture between the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ South China Sea Institute of Oceanology (SCSIO) and the China University of Geosciences (CUG) – both leading research institutes in marine geology.

The team set off on the expedition in early July on board the Shi Yan 6, the newest and one of the most advanced research ships owned by China.

Chinese state media reports on the survey attracted a lot of public attention. But the lead researchers have kept a low profile.