Jiaolong submersible vessel [File photo]

 

"Fixed-wing aircraft can't land on the sea, or on islands without airports," he said. "Boats are too slow, and helicopters' range is even more limited." While dismissing any possible link with the navy, Yan commented that South Korea has also been actively engaged in developing such vehicles, "perhaps to facilitate transport between the peninsular and China's Shandong Province."

He added: "As scientists, we only focus on the advancement of technology, and wouldn't want to get involved in military or diplomatic issues."

However, Yan has also urged greater public awareness of China's maritime rights, referencing the recent skirmishes in the South China Sea between China and its southeastern Asian neighbors, as well as incidents in the East Sea with Japan and South Korea.

"China's territory also includes three million square kilometers of water, and this is a very important part of our territory," said Yan.