Community Chinese Icebreaker “Xue Long 2” Visits Thailand to Mark Royal Celebration & Bilateral Ties

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Chinese polar research vessel Xue Long 2 , also known as the Snow Dragon 2 , docked at Chuk Samet Pier, Royal Thai Navy Base in Sattahip, Chonburi Province, for an official visit to Thailand from 19–23 May. The visit is part of celebrations marking the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and commemorates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China.

 

Developed entirely by China, Xue Long 2 is one of the world’s most advanced medium-sized icebreakers. The vessel measures 122.5 metres in length and 22.3 metres in width, with a displacement of 13,990 tonnes. It accommodates a crew of 40 and up to 50 scientists on board.

 

Captain Xiao Xueming, commanding officer of the vessel, highlighted its standout capability of icebreaking. The ship can effortlessly cut through ice up to 1.5 metres thick, using a dual-directional propulsion system capable of 2–3 knots in icy waters. Its design enables the bow to climb onto and press down on the ice, facilitating a breakthrough for continued navigation.

 

 

Xue Long 2 plays a crucial role in China’s polar research programmes, contributing to studies in oceanography, atmospheric science, geophysics, ecosystems, and climate change. It also serves logistical functions, transporting scientists, research equipment, supplies, and fuel to China’s polar research stations.

 

China currently operates several research stations in Antarctica: Great Wall (1985), Zhongshan (1989), Kunlun (2009), Taishan Camp (2014), and Qinling (2024). In the Arctic, the Yellow River Station, established in 2004, supports northern hemisphere research. Xue Long 2 is vital in servicing these remote scientific outposts.

 

The vessel is also equipped with an array of advanced sensors and data systems for scientific exploration, including a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that significantly reduces engine emissions, a key consideration for operations in ecologically sensitive polar regions.

 

During its Thai visit, the ship will host public outreach activities aimed at fostering interest in polar science and marine research. Events at Chuk Samet Pier from 20–23 May, which will allow the public to engage with the mission firsthand. Additionally, an exhibition titled “Xue Long 2 and See the Unseen in Polar Region” is being held at Siam Paragon in Bangkok from 14–25 May, alongside academic seminars between Thai and Chinese researchers.

 

The visit of Xue Long 2 underscores the role of science as a bridge for international cooperation and offers a valuable opportunity to inspire young Thais interested in global environmental and research issues.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

 

 

 

[Geoffggi]

Don't think ice breaking is required around Thailand ................LOL

[jacko45k]

7 minutes ago, Geoffggi said:

Don't think ice breaking is required around Thailand ................LOL

Dare we worry that the floating stuff in Pattaya bay has gotten so thick..... ?

[nausea]

Yeah, I get it, it's here to showcase China's polar exploration endeavors, but an icebreaker visiting tropical Thailand is kinda funny.

[Yagoda]

An icebreaker is symbolic of the National Socialist Han dictatorship's desired march to world hegemony.