Chongqing — Three "Jiaozi" manned sightseeing submersibles, manufactured in the inland city of Chongqing, have been shipped from Guangzhou for export to Indonesia, according to the Chongqing Customs District.
A “Jiaozi” manned submersible during an underwater test. (Photo/Wushan Media Center)
Developed by Chongqing Kunlian Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd., the vessel is reportedly China's first self-developed small-scale sightseeing submersible. Designed to dive to depths of 200 meters, it accommodates three passengers and one pilot. The craft is equipped with multiple safety features, including automatic obstacle avoidance and emergency surfacing systems.
The "Jiaozi" is already operational in several scenic areas across Hainan, Chongqing, and Bali, Indonesia. In Bali, the service offers both daytime tours and nighttime underwater experiences via reservation. The cabin is outfitted with a 5G network, high-definition cameras, and audio systems, allowing tourists to operate the sub under professional guidance and even conduct live underwater broadcasts.
Founded in 2022, Kunlian Machinery specializes in manufacturing equipment for railways, shipbuilding, and aerospace. Despite being based in a mountainous inland region, the company has rapidly expanded into international markets. In 2025, the firm secured an export order from Indonesia for over 100 units, with a total contract value exceeding 100 million yuan (approximately $14 million).
Technicians conduct electrical testing on a manned submersible at Chongqing Kunlian Machinery in Wushan. (Photo/Wushan Media Center)
Company founder Jiang Zhidi stated that the "Jiaozi" will be deployed to five additional countries and regions this year, including the Maldives, Malaysia, and Thailand. The company is currently optimizing its electronic control and hydrodynamic systems for future product iterations.
Beyond tourism, the submersible is designed to serve as a versatile platform. "The underwater environment is complex, and manual operations carry high risks," Jiang noted. "By attaching external equipment to the 'Jiaozi,' we can expand its applications into offshore fishing, marine ranching management, and underwater rescue."