Phase I of the Dapeng Bay Marine Test Field — Tuyang Open-sea Test Zone will begin trial operations July 15, the iDapeng WeChat account announced recently.

This “super laboratory” is a cornerstone of Shenzhen’s broader strategy to establish itself as a global maritime center, focusing on fostering high-tech marine industries. City officials aim for the facility to significantly shorten the development cycle from research to commercial application.

A view of the Tuyang Open-sea Test Zone. Photo from iDapeng WeChat account 

The project is part of a comprehensive “one base, multiple test areas” plan that will eventually create a chain of testing facilities for various marine environments, from coastal waters to the deep sea. To support its mission, the Dapeng Bay site comes equipped with substantial infrastructure, including:

● Two piers: One for smaller equipment and a larger one capable of accommodating 5,000-ton motherships for deploying heavy-duty test items.

● A dedicated scientific research vessel: A 100-ton mothership equipped with mobile monitoring and control systems, enabling 24-hour research operations.

● Shore-based support: A land-based facility offering temporary offices, equipment storage, a command center, and a high-ground observation point with an unobstructed view of the test area.

Operating on an appointment-only basis, clients will have access to a suite of services, including rental of specialized equipment like advanced acoustic communication and positioning systems. The facility will also offer customized test-plan development, labor, and logistical support to meet the specific needs of its users.