Japan Shifts Focus to Unmanned Submersibles for Deep-Sea Exploration
Japan's venerable manned research submersible, the Shinkai 6500, is nearing the end of its design life. As the technology to build a successor is no longer available, the science ministry is prioritizing the development of unmanned submersibles for future deep-sea exploration.
The Shinkai 6500, owned by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), has been Japan's sole manned research submersible since its completion in 1990. It has conducted over 1,700 dives, playing a crucial role in deep-sea exploration. However, its pressure-resistant shell, a key component, is reaching the end of its lifespan in the 2040s. Additionally, other essential components are aging and no longer in production.
Recognizing the challenges, JAMSTEC plans to utilize the Shinkai 6500 for its remaining lifespan and then transition to unmanned submersibles equipped with artificial intelligence. This shift aligns with the ministry's decision to prioritize the development of unmanned probes capable of observations and sample collection at depths of 6,500 meters or more.
This move is driven by several factors. Firstly, the intensifying global competition in deep-sea exploration necessitates advanced technology for research and resource discovery. Secondly, deep-sea exploration holds immense potential for economic security through the exploration of energy and mineral resources. A recent discovery of rare metals near Japan's easternmost island highlights this potential.
Furthermore, unmanned submersibles offer several advantages over manned submersibles. They cater to business needs like undersea resource development and offshore wind power generation, and they are generally more cost-effective. Additionally, many countries are promoting domestic production of unmanned submersibles for economic security reasons.
While Japan once held the world's top diving capability, it is now falling behind, particularly in the development of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Most of Japan's AUVs are foreign-made, prompting the government to devise a strategy for domestic production by 2030.
The shift towards unmanned submersibles signifies a crucial step for Japan to maintain its position in deep-sea exploration. While the Shinkai 6500 will continue to serve its purpose, the future lies in advanced unmanned technology that can unlock the vast potential of the deep sea.