China is developing the world’s first mobile, self-sustaining artificial island — a 78,000-ton deep-sea research platform engineered to withstand a nuclear blast.
The vessel, slated to enter service in 2028, can house 238 people for four months without resupply and operate in extreme weather, including typhoons up to Category 17.
Officially billed as a scientific facility, the platform uses military-grade nuclear-blast-resistant “metamaterial” sandwich panels, according to research published in the Chinese Journal of Ship Research.
The craft’s twin-hull design allows continuous ocean monitoring, testing of marine technologies and potential seabed-mining work in disputed regions such as the South China Sea. Its mobility and endurance give China a powerful new tool for projecting influence in contested waters.
Analysts say the island’s dual-use capabilities could make it a command node, surveillance platform or logistics hub — a major upgrade to China’s maritime presence as strategic competition with the United States intensifies.
Related post on X:
The #UAE Air Force's #AlFursan aerobatic display team presented a spectacular aerobatic performance with newly acquired China's #L15 advanced jet trainers and attracted much attention at the #DubaiAirshow2025. #L15JetTrainer #UAEAerobaticTeam #DubaiAirshow #HongduL15… pic.twitter.com/QRFlmJRfpn
— China Military Bugle (@ChinaMilBugle) November 20, 2025
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