China's 16th Arctic Expedition Sets Sail

On July 3, 2026, China's 16th Arctic expedition team, organized by the Ministry of Natural Resources, departed from Dalian, Liaoning Province, aboard the research vessels Xuelong, Xuelong 2, and Jidi (Polar Region), heading for the Arctic Ocean .

This expedition marks the first Arctic voyage of China's 15th Five-Year Plan period and is jointly carried out by four vessels: the Xuelong, Xuelong 2, the Jidi, and the Tan suo san hao (Discovery III) . The mission is scheduled to conclude in early October 2026 .

Scientific Objectives and Research Focus

The expedition is centered on addressing global climate change and its impacts. In key Arctic sea areas, the team will conduct comprehensive surveys and monitoring across multiple disciplines, including sea ice, hydrology, biology, ecology, and atmospheric environment .

Research will also focus on international frontier topics in the Arctic, such as the accretion mechanisms of the Gakkel Ridge and the dynamic evolution of oceanic crust .

International Cooperation

The expedition involves collaborative operations with scientists from Russia and Germany, providing scientific support for China and the international community to better understand and protect the Arctic, and to participate in Arctic governance .

Context and Significance

Driven by global warming, the Arctic's natural environment is undergoing rapid and profound changes, with accelerating sea ice melt that has global implications . Continuing comprehensive Arctic expeditions provides essential foundational support for addressing global climate change and promoting sustainable development in the Arctic region .