Core Viewpoint - Japan is planning to construct a new research vessel to enhance deep-sea exploration capabilities, addressing the aging of the current vessel "Yokosuka" and the need for advanced technology in marine resource development [1][2]. Group 1: New Research Vessel Development - The new research vessel will be equipped with various autonomous and remotely operated underwater vehicles, including AUVs, ROVs, and manned submersibles like "Deep Sea 6500" [1]. - The Japanese government aims to allocate budget for this new vessel in the fiscal year 2026, with design taking 1-2 years and construction requiring 3-4 years [1]. - The new vessel will significantly reduce the time required for marine surveys and decrease the need for manual underwater operations, thus lowering personnel and operational costs [1]. Group 2: Importance of Deep-Sea Research - Deep-sea exploration is crucial for investigating essential minerals such as rare earth elements used in electric vehicle components, as well as for discovering unknown marine life and predicting trench-type earthquakes [1]. - The current vessel "Yokosuka," which has been in service for 35 years, is facing aging issues and parts supply shortages, necessitating the construction of a new research vessel [1][2]. - If the construction of the new vessel is delayed, there may be a gap in Japan's marine research capabilities, particularly affecting the operation of critical exploration tools like the "Deep Sea 6500" [2].