China has officially launched its first intelligent offshore drilling platform, named 'Huizhou 26-6', in the South China Sea, a significant development that is set to enhance the country's energy extraction capabilities and operational efficiencies.

According to the China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), the platform is strategically located approximately 230 kilometers southeast of Shenzhen City, within the Guangdong Province. The substantial structure weighs over 30,000 tonnes and boasts a deck area comparable to that of eight standard basketball courts.

The Huizhou 26-6 platform is situated above oil and gas fields that are located at an average water depth of 112 meters. It has proven geological reserves that are estimated at around 50 million cubic meters of oil equivalent, making it a vital asset for China's energy sector.

An impressive feature of this intelligent platform is that it incorporates three times the amount of equipment found on traditional offshore drilling structures, yet takes up one-third less space. This design enables advanced functions such as intelligent production, drilling, equipment health management, and enhanced security.

Experts involved in the project have indicated that these technological advancements are projected to increase production efficiency by 20 percent while also achieving a 10 percent reduction in annual operation and maintenance costs.

Wei Weirong, the vice general manager of the project team, highlighted the challenges faced during the installation of the platform's massive upper block, noting that conventional cranes were insufficient to cope with its weight.

In response to this challenge, the project team developed an innovative solution that utilized tidal forces coupled with advanced ship-load adjustment technologies, enabling them to position the upper block with remarkable precision.

Li Tao, general manager of the oilfield development project, praised this method, explaining that the innovative approach ensured a perfect fit of the block onto the jacket, achieving a docking accuracy measured in millimeters.