Core Insights - The "Fighter" manned submersible has embarked on an international mission under the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, focusing on the global abyss exploration plan [1] - In 2025, China's three manned submersibles completed a total of 321 dives, with the "Fighter" achieving the highest number at 118 dives, marking a significant advancement in China's deep-sea exploration capabilities [1] - The mission to the Arctic involved a 98-day journey covering over 15,000 nautical miles, with 43 dives conducted, establishing China as the only country capable of continuous manned deep-sea dives in densely ice-covered Arctic regions [1][15] Submersible Operations - The "Fighter" submersible successfully reached the deepest point of the Arctic at 5,277 meters, collecting valuable rock, biological samples, and observational data crucial for studying Arctic climate change and deep Earth mantle activities [15] - The mission faced unprecedented challenges during the recovery of the submersible, taking nearly three hours due to ice coverage, highlighting the difficulties of operating in extreme conditions [4][6] - The research team adapted their strategy from "ship finding submersible" to "submersible finding ship" due to the lack of satellite signal coverage, utilizing domestic ice-breaking radar and acoustic communication systems [8] Technological Advancements - The "Fighter" has undergone multiple technological upgrades during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, including a secondary release device that allows it to hover at a depth of 300 meters before safely ascending, facilitating deep-sea exploration in extreme polar regions [17] - The operational capabilities of China's manned submersibles have significantly advanced over the past two decades, positioning the country at the forefront of global deep-sea exploration [17][19] Research Contributions - The exploration of the Gakkel Ridge, characterized by its ultra-slow expansion, provides a unique natural laboratory for studying Earth's deep structure, with the "Fighter" being the first manned submersible to conduct scientific research in this area [2][12] - The mission's success in achieving 32 dives within 29 days demonstrates the team's efficiency and adaptability in a challenging environment, contributing to a better understanding of geological processes [12][15]
叩开北极冰封之海,和“奋斗者”号一起向深而行!
Yang Shi Xin Wen·2026-01-04 06:06