China operates key Arctic research facilities to advance its scientific ambitions:
Location: Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, Norway （78°55′N, 11°56′E）
Established: 2004
Description: A multidisciplinary research base focusing on atmospheric, biological, marine, and glaciological studies.
These icebreakers enable China to conduct independent Arctic expeditions and assert its presence in the region.
| Vessel722 | Vessel723 | Xuelong | Xuelong | jidi | |
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| Date of Launch | 2015 | March 17,2016 | October 1994 | October 2019 | 2024 |
| Introduction | Built at theNo.27 Shipyard, isthe fourthgenerationdeep-sea mining vessel. | Part of the sameproduction batch as vessel 722,also a fourth-generation deep-sea miningvessel. | One of China's first generationdeep-sea miningvessels,launched in1993. | Part of a newgeneration ofdeep-sea miningvesselslaunched in late2019. | In local iceregions of 1-meter thickness(excludingextremeconditions of iceover 1.2 metersor sea ice withhigh pressure),the navigationspeed can reach2 knots. |
| Dimensions(m) | 103.10m x18.40m | 103.10m x18.40m | 167mx22.60m | 122.30m x22.30m | 89.95m x 8.2m |
| Displacement(ton) | 4860 tons | 4860 tons | 21025 tons | 13990 tons | 4600 tons |
| Operating Depth(m) | 18m | 18m | 17.90m | 15m | 18m |
| Capacity(tons) | 7000 tons | 7000 tons | 19000 tons | 20000 tons | 4600 tons |
| Power Source | Dual-axispropeller 2 x1000 horsepower | Dual-axispropeller 2 x1000horsepower | Single propeller,5.5M W(approx.2K horsepower) | Single propeller,5.5M W(approx.2K horsepower) | 9 |
Since 1999, China has conducted multiple Arctic scientific expeditions, making significant contributions to research in Arctic marine, ice, atmospheric environment, and climate change. Each expedition has collected valuable scientific data, advancing China's Arctic research development.
Marking the beginning of China's involvement in Arctic affairs.
Source: Spitsbergen TreatyEstablishes key institutions such as the National Polar Research Institute, laying the foundation for Arctic exploration.
Source: CHINARESignificantly expanding its Arctic scientific activities.
Source: IASCCompleted using the research vessel "Xuelong" (Snow Dragon).
Source: CHINAREA permanent research station to support multidisciplinary Arctic studies.
Source: CHINAREBecoming the first Asian nation to organize a high-level Arctic meeting.
Source: ASSWStrengthening its participation in Arctic governance.
Source: Arctic CouncilAnnounced during their 20th regular bilateral meeting.
Source: Gov.cnStrengthening regional cooperation on Arctic affairs.
Source: Xinhua NewsOfficially confirmed by the National Development and Reform Commission.
Source: NDRCJoint efforts with Russia, including the Yamal LNG project launch.
Source: KremlinOutlining China's interests and policies in the Arctic region.
Source: Gov.cnBoth "Xuelong" and "Xuelong 2" conduct simultaneous Arctic and Antarctic missions.
Source: CHINAREMarking a milestone in China's independent polar exploration capabilities.
Source: CHINAREDefining long-term priorities in polar research, including the Arctic.
Source: Gov.cnFocused on Arctic sea ice melt and its impact on global climate systems.
Source: CHINARE
Social Sciences Academic Press (China)
Report on Arctic Region Development
2022
Report on Arctic Region Development
2021
Report on Arctic Region Development
2020
Report on Arctic Region Development
2019
Report on Arctic Region Development
2018
Report on Arctic Region Development
2017
Report on Arctic Region Development
2016