China completes testing on ‘deep-sea electro-hydrostatic actuator’ capable of slicing undersea cables as deep as 3.5 kilometers – new compact subsea vessel testing bridges the ‘last mile’ and could deploy in 2026 China successfully tests a new subsea cable cutting vessel - will it be used by the military? #China #undersea_cables #China_completes #China_successfully #deep-sea_electro-hydrostatic #electro-hydrostatic_actuator’ #actuator’_capable #slicing_undersea #successfully_tests #completes_testing
China Hails Successful Test Of Deep-Sea Tool Built To Sever Deep-Sea Network Cables China has announced the successful testing of a specialized deep-sea electro-hydrostatic actuator designed to sever undersea telecommunications cables at depths of 3,500 meters, marking a significant advancement in its deep-sea intervention capabilities. The trial, conducted by researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and reported by state media, demonstrates the device’s ability to operate in the abyssal zone, where most of the world’s critical internet and data infrastructure is located. This development underscores China’s growing technological prowess in underwater operations and its potential strategic implications for global connectivity. The electro-hydrostatic actuator is engineered to be self-contained and highly efficient, enabling it to be mounted on small, unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). During the latest tests, the tool successfully cut through high-tension cables without requiring a large surface support fleet or cumbersome umbilicals. This compact design allows for deployment from standard research vessels or even commercial ships, making it difficult for foreign maritime powers to detect such activities. The Haiyang Dizhi 2 research vessel completed its first deep-sea scientific mission of the year, highlighting the practical application of this technology. Strategically, the device’s operational depth of 3,500 meters places nearly all of the South China Sea’s seabed infrastructure within reach. While China has officially framed the technology as a tool for deep-sea maintenance, salvage, and scientific exploration, state-affiliated reports suggest it is also prepared for more assertive roles.#china #south_china_sea #chinese_academy_of_sciences #haiyang_dizhi_2 #undersea_cables
