China advances marine ranching with real-sea underwater robotics trials

China has taken a new step towards modernising its marine ranching sector by successfully testing underwater robots in real-sea conditions, reports Xinhua News Agency, a partner of TV BRICS.

The trials took place during a regional competition in the waters off Zhuhai, where 16 teams from across the country deployed robotic systems in an operational marine ranch in the South China Sea. The event aimed to address long-standing operational challenges in offshore aquaculture through advanced automation.

Unlike traditional robotics contests held in controlled pools, participants were required to operate in dynamic marine conditions, including strong currents, low visibility and wave motion. Tasks mirrored real industry demands, such as retrieving submerged equipment, harvesting seabed shellfish and removing biofouling from aquaculture infrastructure.

Experts highlighted that testing in open water compels developers to prioritise reliability, affordability and ease of use – key factors for large-scale adoption in marine industries.

Several teams demonstrated high levels of autonomy and resistance to environmental interference, signalling strong potential for real-world deployment. In parallel, advances in artificial intelligence are being integrated into underwater systems, enabling improved inspection, monitoring and decision-making capabilities in complex marine environments.

The competition was designed to directly connect technological innovation with industry demand. Ahead of the event, organisers identified a wide range of operational needs – from infrastructure inspection to environmental monitoring – and linked them with prospective deployment opportunities.