China's first ultra-deepwater drilling ship, the “Mengxiang” (Dream), has been named and had its maiden voyage in Nansha, Guangzhou. This marks a significant advancement in China's deep-sea exploration and marine technology capabilities. The ship, measuring 179 meters long and capable of carrying about 33,000 tonnes, can traverse 15,000 nautical miles and reach a depth of 11,000 meters.

Led by the China Geological Survey and designed by China State Shipbuilding Corporation, with contributions from over 150 research institutes and companies, the “Mengxiang” is a major scientific and technological innovation project. Expected to be completed next year, it will support major national scientific projects and international ocean exploration missions.